A manifest mailing system (MMS) is a method of verifying postage payment of permit imprint mailings, as an alternative to weight verification. The MMS is an automated system that allows a mailer to document postage and fees for all pieces in Priority Mail Express (Electronic Verification System “eVS” only under 2.9), First-Class Mail, Standard Mail, Parcel Select, Package Services, and international permit imprint mailings. Each piece is assigned a unique identification number that is listed on the manifest along with pertinent information about the mailpiece. The USPS randomly selects pieces from the mailing and compares them to the manifest to determine if postage was accurately reported. The standards in 2.2 describe how to mail using an MMS.

Mailers using a MMS when presenting Parcel Select destination entry mailings under 256.2.0 or commingled parcel mailings under 6.0 or 7.0, may document and pay postage using the Electronic Verification System (eVS) (see 2.9). Business Mailer Support (BMS), USPS Headquarters, must approve these systems. Unless authorized by Business Mailer Support, mailers may not commingle eVS mail with non-eVS mail within the same mailing or place eVS mail and non-eVS mail in or on the same mailing container.

a. A MMS approved by the district, as defined in 2.4.6a, is authorized with a letter signed by the district Customer Service manager, and addressed to the mailer making the MMS application. The authorization letter contains provisions regarding mailer and USPS responsibilities, including document retention and quality control.

The mailer must have an automated system that produces mail consistent with postal standards and calculates postage accurately. For presorted mail, the system also must determine the qualifying presort level and the correct price of postage for each piece and perform the presort routines. The mailer must assign a unique identification number to each piece. Letter- and flat-size mail produced using batch processing must bear the keyline information in 2.3. The system must produce a manifest for each mailing that allows USPS verification of the postage and levels of presort. The manifest must account for every piece in the mailing, as follows:

b. Batch processing. The mailing is divided into groups of mailpieces with consecutive identification numbers. Only the identification numbers of the first and last pieces of each group are listed, along with the piece count and the total postage charges for the entire batch. This method is limited to piece price letter- and flat-size mailings. Publication 401 contains specific formats for manifests using batch processing.

a. For manifests using itemized processing, line out the identification number, weight, and postage information (if applicable, also line out the piece on Form 3877) or write the unique identification number, piece weight, and postage (and, if applicable, the fee amount) on a separate listing. Deduct the total number of pieces, piece weights, and postage and fees from the totals shown on the manifest, summary, and postage statement.

b. For manifests using batch processing, write the adjustments directly on the manifest listing showing the consecutive serial number, weight increment, price category, and postage of each item next to the batch that includes the serial number. Alternatively, a separate list may be prepared as an attachment to the manifest showing, for each spoiled piece, the consecutive serial number, weight increment, price category, and postage. The total number of pieces, piece weight, and postage must be deducted from the batch, manifest summary, and postage statement.

a. Publication 401, Guide to the Manifest Mailing System, contains an application to mail using an MMS.

b. Publication 205, Electronic Verification System Technical Guide, provides the eVS application procedures for mailers. Customers using an Electronic Manifesting Solution for Parcels must also establish a user account and mailer agreement with USPS in the Business Customer Gateway at https://gateway.usps.com.

b. For a MMS approved by Business Mailer Support, as defined in 2.4.5b, a district USPS representative will review the system and the district Customer Service manager will give temporary approval if the system is functioning as required. A final review will be conducted by a Business Mailer Support representative within 90 days of the date of the temporary approval, and the Business Mailer Support manager will give final approval if the system is functioning as required.

a. Verification samples are deemed representative of the entire mailing, and postage adjustment calculations are applied to the total mailing. The mailer must pay additional postage for any underpayments identified during USPS verification. A mailer may elect to overpay postage for pieces that are borderline weight or price increments to avoid postage underpayment adjustments.

c. For eVS mailings prepared under 2.9, USPS charges eVS mailers for postage due for any underpaid, unmanifested, or mis-shipped destination delivery unit (DDU) parcels at the end of the review period following the monthly mailing period as follows:

1. Underpaid Parcels. If the total postage of parcels sampled during the mailing period indicates that the mailer has underpaid postage by more than 1.5% when compared with the corresponding parcel records in the mailer's manifest files, USPS determines additional postage due based on the total postage already paid for the mailing month using the procedures in Publication 205.

2. Unmanifested Parcels. USPS charges eVS mailers for parcels not listed in the mailer's manifest files but identified by USPS processing scans or acceptance and delivery scans as being mailed. USPS determines the postage charges using sampling data and the procedures in Publication 205.

3. Mis-Shipped DDU Parcels. USPS charges eVS mailers the appropriate single-piece price less the original price paid for parcels identified by acceptance scans to be deposited at incorrect destination delivery units. USPS transports these mis-shipped parcels to the correct destination delivery units. USPS determines the additional postage using scanning data and the procedures in Publication 205. Parcels mis-shipped at destination NDCs or destination SCFs are handled through parcel sampling and are treated as underpaid parcels.

a. A MMS, not approved to use the Minimum Volume Reduction Provision (MVRP) defined in Publication 401, and approved by the district as defined in 2.4.5a, remains in effect until such time as the district manager or the mailer cancels the authorization or agreement. If Postal Service periodic reviews or mailer supplied information demonstrates a need for modification, the agreement or authorization will be modified with concurrence by the district manager and the mailer.

b. A MMS approved to use a MVRP as defined in Publication 401, remains in effect for the time period specified in the MVRP, unless the district Customer Service manager or the mailer cancels the MMS authorization. The MVRP authorization will be reviewed at the end of the authorization period and may be renewed by decision of the district Customer Service manager.

c. A MMS approved by Business Mailer Support as defined in 2.4.5b, remains in effect until such time as the Business Mailer Support manager or the mailer cancels the agreement or authorization. If Postal Service periodic reviews or mailer supplied information demonstrates a need for modification, the agreement or authorization will be modified with concurrence by the Business Mailer Support manager and the mailer.

b. For MMS applications denied by the Business Mailer Support manager, the mailer may, within 15 days from the receipt of the notice, file a written appeal, including any additional evidence in support of why the MMS should be authorized. This appeal is sent to the vice president, Mail Entry and Payment Technology, USPS Headquarters, who issues the final agency decision.

Only MMS with an approved Minimum Volume Reduction Provision (MVRP) requires renewal. MMS with MVRP are renewed prior to the expiration date by the Sales manager that originally authorized the MVRP. The Sales manager reviews all supporting documentation to determine if the mailer continues to meet the requirements of the MVRP. The MVRP is renewed when the review demonstrates that the MVRP continues to meet established requirements.

a. For MMS authorizations given final approval by the district Customer Service manager, the mailer has 15 days from the date of receipt of the notice to file a written appeal with the Business Mailer Support manager. The appeal must include the reason why the MMS authorization should not be revoked. The Business Mailer Support manager issues the final agency decision. The final revocation takes effect 15 days after receipt by the mailer.

b. For MMS authorizations given final approval by the Business Mailer Support manager, the mailer has 15 days from the date of receipt of the notice to file a written appeal with the vice president, Mail Entry and Payment Technology, USPS Headquarters. The appeal must include the reason why the MMS authorization should not be revoked. The vice president, Mail Entry and Payment Technology, USPS Headquarters, issues the final agency decision. The final revocation takes effect 15 days after receipt by the mailer.

No special price markings are required on PMEM items. However, barcoded PMEM labels are required on all PMEM mailpieces, and specific label formats must be followed. Detailed barcode and Priority Mail Express label specifications and options are published in Publication 97. The labels are subject to approval by Product Information Requirements, Product Development, USPS Headquarters, and the National Customer Support Center (NCSC). Mailers must follow the specific certification procedures outlined in Publication 97.

Mailers must apply to use a PMEM system by completing the application in Publication 97. The application must be sent to the USPS sales representative at the Post Office where the items will be accepted as mail. After the application and other documentation has been received and reviewed, the application and Form 1357-S is faxed to Product Information, Product Requirements, USPS Headquarters. This office will send the contact page of the application to the Postal NCSC USPS Tracking Office. The USPS Tracking Office will send a test kit to the applicant via electronic mail to test the electronic file transmission accuracy. The application for PMEM must be accompanied by the following:

A temporary service agreement will be issued by the district marketing manager through the Business Mail Entry Office for 90days at the location where the mailings will be verified and accepted when a review of the mailer’s application and mailing operation indicates the mailer meets the eligibility requirements for entry of Priority Mail Express items using a PMEM system. Prior to the end of the 90 day temporary agreement the district business mail entry manager will conduct a final review to ensure that the system continues to meet standards. Upon a successful review, the district Customer Sales and Service manager gives final approval of the PMEM system. Publication 97-A, Priority Mail Express Manifesting Implementation and Administration Guide, outlines the specific responsibilities of the various USPS departments in approval process.

The district Customer Service and Sales manager may suspend a PMEM agreement at any time, pending review, when there is an indication that postal revenue is not fully protected. The district Customer Service and Sales manager will notify the mailer of the decision in writing. The suspension becomes effective upon the mailer’s receipt of the notification.

The cancellation takes effect 15days from the mailer’s receipt of the notice unless, within that time, the mailer files a written appeal with the Business Mailer Support manager. The appeal must present additional information explaining why the PMEM agreement should not be canceled. The Business Mailer Support manager will issue the final agency decision.

An Optional Procedure Mailing System is a method of verifying and accepting First-Class Mail, Standard Mail, Package Services, or Parcel Select paid by permit imprint. Mailings may consist of identical-weight or nonidentical-weight pieces. The Optional Procedure Mailing System reviews a mailer’s financial, production, and other business records in lieu of standard weight verification procedures. Postage verification is normally completed by a USPS audit of business records kept by the mailer. A USPS audit is designed to detect underpayment of postage. The burden rests with the mailer to prove any overpayment of postage. Additional information on Optimal Procedure Mailing System ccan be found online at ribbs.usps.gov and in Publication 407, Optional Procedure (OP) Mailing System.

A mailer may request authorization to pay postage by an AMS by submitting a written request to the postmaster at the office of mailing. The request must include a complete description of the types of matter to be mailed, the proposed method of paying postage, the proposed method to determine correct mail preparation, and a statement of the reasons for requesting the alternate system. The USPS may review the mailer’s operation before ruling on the application.

Revocation proceeds if the mailer is unable or unwilling to correct the discrepancies found. The mailer may file a written appeal within 15 days from the date of receipt of the notice, which includes evidence explaining why the AMS authorization should not be revoked. The appeal must be filed with the Business Mailer Support manager for referral to the vice president, Mail Entry and Payment Technology, USPS Headquarters, who issues the final agency decision. The mailer may continue to present mail under the AMS pending a decision on appeal. The revocation decision takes effect 15 days after receipt by the mailer.

After specific USPS authorization, a mailer may prepare separate First-Class Mail or Standard Mail letter-size automation price mailings that each contain pieces paid with more than one of the three authorized methods of postage payment (permit imprint, meter stamp, or precanceled stamp) or that contain pieces having different prices of postage affixed or multiple ounces of First-Class Mail permit imprint mail or nonidentical-weight permit imprint mail. For this standard, mailer or presenter is the entity preparing the combined mailing and presenting it to the USPS. All standards applying to each method of payment apply in a combined mailing, unless excepted below.

The Business Mailer Support manager may suspend a combined mailing system authorization or agreement at any time, pending investigation, if the manager finds that postage is not being fully paid or mail is not being prepared according to standards. The decision to suspend the agreement may be appealed to the vice president, Mail Entry and Payment Technology, USPS Headquarters, within 15 days of the receipt of the notice, by submitting a written appeal with explanation. The suspension remains in effect during the appeal. A suspension is ended when the mailer comes into compliance.

If the USPS decides to cancel an authorization, cancellation becomes effective 15 days from the mailer’s receipt of the notice, unless the mailer files a written appeal within that time with the Business Mailer Support manager. The appeal must include additional information explaining why the combined mailing authorization should not be canceled. If the manager denies the appeal, both the appeal and the additional information are sent to the vice president, Mail Entry and Payment Technology, USPS Headquarters, who issues the final agency decision.

Metered pieces in a combined mailing must bear postage for the first ounce at the Presorted price or at an automation price for which the pieces are eligible and, if applicable, the full amount of postage due for additional ounces. Additional postage due for metered pieces in a combined mailing is deducted from the mailer’s postage due advance deposit account. Full postage at single-piece First-Class Mail prices must be paid on accompanying single-piece price mail using one of the methods under 134.1.0. Additional preparation to verify postage due may be required by the USPS.

Metered pieces in a combined mailing must bear postage at a Presorted or automation price for which the pieces are eligible. Additional postage due for metered pieces in a combined mailing is deducted from the mailer’s postage due advance deposit account. Full postage at single-piece First-Class Mail prices must be paid on accompanying single-piece price mail using one of the methods under 243.3.0, 705.5.0, and 134.1.0. Additional preparation to verify postage due may be required by the USPS.

[3-2-15] Pieces with precanceled stamps in a combined mailing must not weigh more than 2 ounces and must bear postage in any denomination of precanceled stamps permitted in a Presorted or automation price mailing. Additional postage due for precanceled stamp pieces in a combined mailing is deducted from the mailer’s postage due advance deposit account. Full postage at the single-piece First-Class Mail price must be paid on accompanying single-piece price mail using one of the methods under 134.1.0. Additional preparation to verify postage due may be required by the USPS.

Pieces with precanceled stamps in a combined mailing must bear postage in any denomination of precanceled stamp permitted in an automation price mailing. Nonprofit postage may appear only on pieces in a Nonprofit price mailing that are eligible for and claimed at a Nonprofit price. Additional postage due for precanceled stamp pieces in a combined mailing is deducted from the mailer’s postage due advance deposit account. Full postage at single-piece First-Class Mail prices must be paid on accompanying single-piece price mail using one of the methods under 243.3.0, 243.5.0, or 134.1.0. Additional preparation to verify postage due may be required by the USPS.

Pieces in a combined mailing may bear the permit imprint of the mailer or the mailer’s clients. Postage for the permit imprint part of a combined mailing must be paid from the mailer’s permit imprint advance deposit account. Postage is deducted only from this account, regardless of the permit numbers or company permit imprints on pieces in a combined mailing. Full postage at single-piece First-Class Mail prices must be paid on accompanying single-piece price mail using one of the methods under 134.1.0 and, for Standard Mail, 243.3.0 and 243.5.0. Additional preparation to verify postage due may be required by the USPS.

i. When markings are applied by an MLOCR, they properly show the applicable identifier/price code described in 5.3.2 that specifies the product month designator, NCOALinkMPE system identifier, the method of postage payment, and the price of postage affixed for metered and precanceled stamp mail or other postage information for permit imprint mail. These markings must be linked by the computer system to the price entered by the mailer when the pieces are run through the MLOCR.

The following markings must be applied to each piece in the mailing when markings are applied by an MLOCR. These seven-character markings provide the automation price marking information and additional information including the product month designator, MASSsystem identifier, manufacturer code, and price marking information. The product month designator is the first character position and represents the product month of the USPS ZIP+4 Product installed with the system’s lookup engine responsible for the ZIP+4 assignment. Each product month is designated by a character “A” through “L” (with “A” meaning January, “B” meaning February, etc.). The MASS System Identifier is characters 2 through 4 and represents the certified system identifier responsible for the ZIP+4 assignment. There is a one-to-one relationship between the certified system serial number and the assigned identifier. The manufacturer code is the fifth character and is assigned at the manufacturer’s discretion with one exception: the character “Z” is assigned when the mailpiece contains a delivery point barcode in the address block and the MLOCR does not perform a lookup but simply reproduces the address block barcode. The price marking is represented in the last two characters according to the chart below. The applicable marking must appear on each mailpiece in one of the locations authorized under 202for letters or 202for flats.

During the initial count of each source mailing (i.e., the quantity of mail originated by each of the mailer’s clients) by the mailer’s automated mailing system, pieces must be grouped by payment method (and, within each for First-Class Mail, by ounce increment). All pieces within each postage-affixed group must have the same amount of postage affixed (for First-Class Mail, the same amount of postage must be affixed for the first ounce). The mailer must keep records of each source that was merged in the combined mailing to allow the USPS to identify each source, the number of pieces by postage payment method, and, within each, by ounce increment (for First-Class Mail), or by amount of postage affixed (for Standard Mail). The mailer must keep these records (in the form of computer-generated printouts or computer media approved by Business Mailer Support) in a central location for 90 days after the mailing date of the combined mailing.

3. The USPS Summary ZIP Destination report in one of two standardized formats that lists by tray destination and price category: each mail category, postage payment type, weight, and price affixed (report all postage affixed First-Class Mail pieces as weighing one ounce); number of pieces; dollar amount of postage affixed to those pieces; cumulative postage affixed; total postage; net postage due; cumulative postage due; and a running total of the number of pieces. If plant-verified drop shipment (PVDS) is used for Standard Mail, a separate USPS Summary ZIP Destination report must be generated for each entry destination. This report is not required if there is only one metered price in the mailing. Business Mailer Support may authorize submission of only portions of this report.

4. The USPS Postage Summary in a standardized format. This report shows, by type of payment method, the total postage claimed for all pieces in the mailing by price level and the total postage affixed by price level. It also shows a grand total summary of postage affixed, postage claimed, and total postage due. If plant-verified drop shipment (PVDS) is used for Standard Mail, a separate USPS Postage Summary report must be generated for each entry destination.

b. The USPS Customer Mail Report must be generated for each mailing but is required to be submitted to the USPS only when requested by USPS personnel for the resolution of errors (shortpaid and potential MLOCR profiling) detected in a specific mailing. The Customer Mail Report must list each customer by name and provide the following information about their mail: price affixed, mail category including postage payment type, weight, total postage, postage affixed, number of pieces, cumulative number of pieces, number of pieces rejected, and total pieces fed.

To prepare the postage statement for permit imprint pieces, the mailer multiplies the number of such pieces qualifying for each price level (and, for First-Class Mail, in each weight increment) (as documented by the mailer) by the corresponding price. The result is the net postage due for the permit imprint part of the combined mailing. If the mailing contains nonidentical-weight permit imprint pieces, the postage statement must be so annotated.

d. Minimum volume requirements for Standard Mail, Parcel Select, Presorted Bound Printed Matter, Presorted Library Mail, and Presorted Media Mail must be met separately and are based solely on the quantity of pieces eligible for each price at the required presort level. Pieces claimed at other prices in the same sack or on the same pallet do not count towards these minimum volume requirements.

Mailers must prepare separate postage statements for Standard Mail, Package Services, and Parcel Select pieces for each of the mailings in the combined mailing. At the time of mailing, mailers must provide all postage statements and a Business Mailer Support-approved manifest prepared according to 2.0 and this section. Presort documentation is required as applicable for each price claimed if the manifest does not list pieces in presort order.

A mailer who wants to present combined parcel mailings must submit a written request to Business Mailer Support (See 608.8.1 for address). The request must show the mailer's name and address, the mailing office, evidence of authorization to mail under 2.0, procedures for combined mailing, the expected date of first mailing, a sample of the required manifest, and a sample USPS Qualification report. Business Mailer Support will review documentation and provide written authorization, which will remain in effect until such time as the Business Mailer Support manager or the mailer cancels the authorization. A mailer may terminate an authorization at any time by written notice to the postmaster of the office serving the mailer's location. Business Mailer Support may terminate an authorization, by written notice, if the mailer does not meet standards or the terms of the authorization.

b. Parcel Select or Bound Printed Matter Qualifying for DSCF Prices. Mailers must prepare the combined mailings under the applicable 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sack requirements in 255.4.2 or the applicable 5-digit scheme and 5-digit pallet requirements in 8.0 for the Parcel Select DSCF prices. All other requirements for Parcel Select DSCF prices, Parcel Select Lightweight prices and Standard Mail prices, as applicable, must be met.

1. If sacked under 255.4.2, the minimum requirement of seven pieces per sack must be met with only Package Services and Parcel Select parcels. After the minimum sack volume has been met, Standard Mail parcels and Parcel Select Lightweight parcels may be included in the sack or in overflow sacks.

2. If palletized under the option to prepare 5-digit scheme or 5-digit pallets when there are at least 50 pieces and 250 pounds per pallet, this pallet minimum must be met with only Package Services and Parcel Select parcels. After the minimum pallet volume has been met, Standard Mail parcels and Parcel Select Lightweight parcels may be included on the pallet or in overflow sacks.

Mailers may combine Package Services and Parcel Select parcels in 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sacks or on 5-digit scheme and 5-digit pallets for entry either at a destination sectional center facility (DSCF) or a destination delivery unit (DDU) when authorized by the USPS under 7.5. Mailers must pay all applicable fees for presort and drop shipment and must meet the minimum volume requirements for Presort prices and Parcel Select prices. Combined Package Services and Parcel Select mailings must meet the standards in 255.4.0 and 266.3.0 through 266.6.0, except as provided by this section.

c. All parcels must be prepared in sacks under 7.2 or on pallets under 7.3. For mail entered at the DSCF prices, pallet preparation is not permitted for 5-digit ZIP Codes that are unable to handle pallets. Refer to the Drop Ship Product maintained by the National Customer Support Center (NCSC) (see 608.8.0 for address) to determine which 5-digit delivery facilities can handle pallets. If a DDU facility cannot handle pallets, and a mailer transports mail to the DDU facility on pallets, the driver will have to unload the pallets into a container specified by the delivery unit.

a. Parcel Select DSCF prices apply to parcels that are contained in 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sacks, each containing at least 10 pieces of any combination of Parcel Select and Package Services mail, or contained in overflow sacks under 7.2.2, provided all other requirements for the DSCF price in 253.3.0 and 255.4.2 are met. Parcel Select DDU prices apply to parcels that are contained in 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sacks, each containing at least 10 pieces of any combination of Parcel Select and Package Services mail, or contained in overflow sacks under 7.2.2, provided all other requirements for the DDU price in 253.3.0 and 255.4.1 are met.

b. Presorted Bound Printed Matter DSCF prices apply to parcels that are contained in 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sacks, each containing at least 10 pieces of any combination of Parcel Select and Package Services mail, or contained in overflow sacks under 7.2.2, provided all other requirements for the DSCF price in 266.3.0 through 266.6.0 are met. Presorted Bound Printed Matter DDU prices apply to parcels that are contained in 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sacks, each containing at least 10 pieces of any combination of Parcel Select and Package Services mail, or contained in overflow sacks under 7.2.2, provided all other requirements for the DDU price in 266.3.0 through 266.6.0 are met.

a. Parcel Select DSCF prices apply to pieces that are prepared on 5-digit scheme and 5-digit pallets, each containing at least 50 pieces and 250 pounds or 36 inches of Parcel Select and Package Services mail, or contained in overflow sacks under 7.1.8, and deposited at a DSCF under 255.4.0. Parcel Select DDU prices apply to pieces that are prepared on 5-digit scheme and 5-digit pallets, each containing at least 50 pieces and 250 pounds or 36 inches of Parcel Select and Package Services mail, or contained in overflow sacks under 7.1.8, and deposited at a DDU under 255.4.0.

b. Presorted Bound Printed Matter DSCF prices apply to pieces that are prepared on 5-digit scheme and 5-digit pallets, each containing at least 50 pieces and 250 pounds or at least 36 inches of Parcel Select and Package Services mail, or contained in overflow sacks under 7.1.8, and deposited at a DSCF under 266.3.0 through 266.6.0. Presorted Bound Printed Matter DDU prices apply to pieces that are prepared on 5-digit scheme and 5-digit pallets, each containing at least 50 pieces and 250 pounds or at least 36 inches of Parcel Select and Package Services mail, or contained in overflow sacks under 7.1.8, and deposited at a DDU under 266.3.0 through 266.6.0.

Mailers may combine Parcel Select and Package Services machinable parcels for entry at a NDC when authorized by the USPS under 7.5. These parcels may be eligible for Parcel Select DNDC/ASF, single-piece and Presorted Media Mail, single-piece and Presorted Library Mail, Bound Printed Matter DNDC, and single-piece and Presorted Bound Printed Matter prices. Mailers may not combine Carrier Route Bound Printed Matter with other parcels.

f. Minimum volume requirements for Parcel Select, Presorted Bound Printed Matter, Presorted Library Mail, and Presorted Media Mail must be met separately and are based solely on the quantity of pieces eligible for each price at the required presort level. Pieces claimed at other prices in the same sack or on the same pallet do not count toward these minimum volume requirements.

Mailers must prepare pallets in the sequence listed below and complete each required level before preparing the next optional or required level. Unless indicated as optional, all sort levels are required under the conditions shown. Destination entry price eligibility applies only to Parcel Select (see 253.3.0 and 255.4.0) and Bound Printed Matter (see 266.3.0). Mailers may, at their option, prepare all machinable parcels for destination entry (see 7.0). Mailers must label pallets according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under 8.0.

a. 5-digit scheme, optional. Pallet may contain parcels for the same 5-digit scheme under L606. Pallets need not be prepared for all 5-digit scheme destinations. For 5-digit destinations not part of L606, or for which scheme sorts are not performed, prepare 5-digit pallets under 2.4. Labeling:

A mailer who wants to present combined parcel mailings must submit a written request to Business Mailer Support (See 608.8.1 for address). The request must show the mailer's name and address, the mailing office, evidence of authorization to mail under 2.0, procedures for combined mailing, the expected date of first mailing, a sample of the required manifest, and a sample USPS Qualification report. Business Mailer Support will review documentation and provide written authorization. Authorizations remain in effect until such time as the Business Mailer Support manager or the mailer cancels the authorization or agreement. A mailer may terminate an authorization at any time by written notice to the postmaster of the office serving the mailer's location. Business Mailer Support may terminate an authorization, by written notice, if the mailer does not meet the standards or the terms of the authorization.

Except for stacked pallets under 8.3.1 and pallet boxes under 8.4.3, each loaded pallet of mail must be prepared to maintain the integrity of the mail and the entire pallet load during transport and handling using one of the following methods:

The USPS informs any mailer or mailer’s agent who presents palletized mailings, including plant-verified drop shipment (PVDS), when the mailer’s pallets fail to meet basic pallet integrity and safety standards. After a mailer is notified and allowed to make changes to improve load integrity, if the mailer’s methods, or those of the mailer’s agent, do not work, the mailer is considered nonconforming. A nonconforming mailer must meet the specifications for nonconforming mailers for top-cap use, stacking of pallets, pallet box construction, and maximum height/tiers of trays in 8.2 through 8.5, respectively. A mailer is suspended from the pallet program if the mailer’s pallets continue to fail to meet the minimum load integrity levels after being notified and allowed to make changes.

a. Except as provided below, all pallets of sacks, trays, parcels, bundles of mail, or pallet boxes must be top-capped if the pallets are stacked two, three, or four tiers high when presented to the USPS for acceptance.

A nonconforming mailer (see 8.1.4) must use top caps on all pallets of sacks, letter mail trays, parcels, or bundles of mail, regardless of weight, or on pallets containing pallet boxes no more than 60 inches high. Top caps must be approximately 48 by 40 inches and meet one of these construction standards:

A nonconforming mailer (see 8.1.4) who stacks pallets is subject to the requirements of 8.3.1 with the additional restrictions that the combined height of any stacked pallets may not exceed 77 inches and that stacking pallets four tiers high is permitted only for pallets of parcels.

A mailer may use pallet boxes constructed of single-, double-, or triple-wall corrugated fiberboard placed on pallets to hold sacks or parcels. Pallet boxes must protect the mail and maintain the integrity of the pallet loads throughout transportation, handling, and processing. Single-wall corrugated fiberboard may be used only for light loads (such as lightweight parcels) that do not require transportation by the USPS beyond the entry office, or for Parcel Select DSCF price mail. Mailers must supply their own pallet boxes. The base of the boxes must measure approximately 40 by 48 inches. Pallet standards require the use of pallet boxes meeting the size requirements in 8.4.2 for machinable Parcel Select claiming ONDC Presort and NDC Presort discounts. Pallet standards prohibit use of pallet boxes for nonmachinable Parcel Select claiming ONDC Presort and NDC Presort discounts. Pallet boxes meeting the size dimensions in 8.4.2 also may be used at the mailer's option for Parcel Select DSCF and Parcel Select DDU price mail.

The combined height of a single pallet, pallet box, and mail may not exceed 77 inches. The contents of the box may not extend above the top rim of the box. For all Parcel Select and Package Services mailings entered at a DSCF or DDU, the height of the pallet box may not exceed 60 inches (excluding the pallet). For Parcel Select ONDC Presort and NDC Presort price mailings of machinable pieces, the height of the pallet box must not exceed 69 inches (excluding the pallet).

Pallet boxes must be secured to the pallet with strapping, banding, stretchable plastic, shrinkwrap, or other material (wire or metal bands, straps, buckles, seals, and similar metal fastening devices cannot be used) that ensures that the pallet can be safely unloaded from vehicles, transported, and processed as a single unit to the point where the contents are distributed with the load intact if:

Pallet sortation is generally intended to presort the palletized portion of a mailing to at least the finest extent required for the corresponding class of mail and method of preparation. Pallet sortation is sequential from the lowest (finest) level to the highest and must be completed at each required level before the next optional or required level is prepared. Standard preparation terms are defined in the Mail Preparation section for each class of mail, standard presort levels are defined in 8.0, and advanced presort levels are defined in 10.0, 12.0, and 13.0. For sacks, trays, or machinable parcels on pallets, the mailer must prepare all required pallet levels before any mixed ADC or mixed NDC pallets are prepared for a mailing or job. Except as described in 15.1g., bundles must not be placed on mixed ADC or mixed NDC pallets. Bundles that cannot be placed on pallets must be prepared in sacks under the standards for the price claimed. The standards for bundle reallocation to protect the SCF, ADC, or NDC pallet (8.11, 8.13, and 8.14) are optional methods of pallet preparation designed to retain as much mail as possible at the SCF, ADC, or NDC level. These standards may result in some bundles of Periodicals flats and irregular parcels and Standard Mail flats that are part of a mailing job prepared in part as palletized flats at automation prices not being placed on the finest level of pallet possible. Mailers must use PAVE-certified presort software to prepare mailings using bundle reallocation (bundle reallocation is optional, but if performed, it must be done for the complete mailing job).

b. For bundles of flat-size mailpieces or bundles of irregular parcels on pallets, after preparing all possible pallets under 8.5.2a., when 250 or more pounds of bundles remain for an ADC (Periodicals) or for a NDC/ASF (Standard Mail, Parcel Select, and Package Services), mailers must prepare the ADC or NDC/ASF pallet, as applicable for the class of mail. Exception: If there are no ADC or NDC/ASF pallets in a mailing and 250 or more pounds remain for an SCF, mailers must prepare the SCF pallet.

4. A pallet may contain a minimum of 100 pounds of nonletter-size mail or 12 linear feet of letter trays if it is a NDC or ASF pallet entered at the destination NDC or ASF; an ADC pallet entered at the destination ADC; an SCF pallet entered at the destination SCF; or the only pallet entered at an individual destination NDC or ASF, ADC, or SCF facility.

b. Parcel Select mailed at NDC Presort, ONDC Presort, DSCF, and DDU prices. A minimum load for the price claimed may be stated in terms of weight, combined piece minimum and weight, or minimum height. There are separate minimum mail heights for machinable parcels and for nonmachinable parcels claimed at ONDC Presort and NDC Presort prices. Mail entered at the Standard Post DSCF prices and prepared directly on pallets or in pallet boxes on pallets must be prepared under either a minimum height requirement or under one of two options requiring a minimum number of pieces and pounds per pallet. There is no minimum weight requirement for an SCF pallet containing 5-digit scheme and 5-digit sacks prepared for the DSCF price. There are no minimums for the Parcel Select DDU price.

a. Machinable parcels. The minimum height of mail in a pallet box is the shortest vertical distance measured from the bottom of a pallet box to the top of the lowest mailpiece. The height of the pallet is not included in this measurement.

b. Nonmachinable parcels. The minimum height of mail on a pallet is the shortest vertical distance measured from the top of the pallet to the top of the lowest mailpiece. The height of the pallet is not included in this measurement.

The maximum weight (mail and pallet) is 2,200 pounds. The maximum height of a single pallet (mail and pallet) is 77 inches for bundles, parcels, sacks, or pallet boxes, or 77 inches or 12 layers of trays (whichever occurs first) for letter trays. Exception: A single pallet that is prepared for entry at Anchorage or Fairbanks, Alaska, has a maximum height of 72 inches (pallet, top cap, and mail).

Mail that is not palletized (e.g., the mailer chooses not to prepare NDC pallets, or the bundles do not meet the machinability standards in 8.5.7 through 8.5.11) must be prepared under the standards for the price claimed. For Periodicals, the mailer must separately sack bundles of each publication that are not palletized or that are excluded from palletization. Trays that are not palletized must be bedloaded. Sacks (including sacks of bundles not placed on pallets) containing bundles remaining after all pallets are prepared may be presented with the palletized mail (and reported on the same postage statement) if separated from the palletized portion of the mailing.

Pallet placards must be pink for Periodicals and white for First-Class Mail, Standard Mail, Package Services, and Parcel Select. Pallet placards must measure at least 8 inches by 11 inches, except that pallet or other USPS container placards bearing Intelligent Mail container barcodes may measure no less than 4 inches by 7 inches when prepared under 708.6.4.6. Placards, affixed to pallets containing Periodicals, bearing an Intelligent Mail container barcode and prepared in the optional smaller format under 708.6.4.6, may be white instead of pink, when a vertical pink one-half inch wide identification bar is included along the left-hand side of the placard; or may be white when used in conjunction with an adjacent pink designator label, under 708.6.4.5.

Lettering for required information on pallet labels must be at least 1/2 inch high (or at least 48-point type). Exception: When customers apply USPS-specified pallet barcodes to pallet labels, the lettering for the required information on line 3 (origin line) must be at least 1/8 inch high (or at least 12-point type). See the “surface visibility” information at http://ribbs.usps.gov for more information about pallet barcodes.

a. Placement. Line 1 must be the first visible line on the label. It must be completely visible and legible when placed on the pallet. If the pallet label does not provide enough space for all required Line 1 information, the destination ZIP Code may be placed right-justified on the line immediately below the rest of Line 1 and above Line 2 (content line). A standard abbreviation for the destination city name may be used.

b. Information. Line 1 must contain only the information specified by standard, including the appropriate destination facility prefix (e.g., “ADC”). Two zeros may follow the 3-digit ZIP Code prefix required by labeling standards (e.g., 223 as 22300).

c. Overseas military mail. On 5-digit pallets for overseas military destinations, Line 1 shows, from left to right, “APO” or “FPO,” followed by “AE” (for ZIP Codes within the ZIP Code prefix range 090-098), “AA” (for ZIP Codes within the 3-digit ZIP Code prefix 340), or “AP” (for ZIP Codes within the ZIP Code prefix range 962-966), followed by the destination 5-digit ZIP Code of the mail on the pallet.

a. Content line information. Pallet labels must indicate whether the mail on the pallet is barcoded, or not barcoded, or both. The content line (line 2 of required information) must be the second visible line on the label. This line must show the class and processing category of the mail on the pallet and other information as specified by standard. If the content line of a pallet label does not provide enough space for all required information, the content information may be continued right-justified on the line immediately below the content line and above the office of mailing or mailer information line.

b. Codes. The codes shown below must be used as appropriate on Line 2 of sack, tray, and pallet labels.

The office of mailing or mailer information line must be the third and bottom line of required information, except as allowed in 8.6.6a or 8.6.6b. Line 3 must show (left-justified) either the city and state of the origin entry Post Office or the mailer's name and the city and state of the mailer's location, except under 8.6.6a or 8.6.6b. Placards on containers of parcels prepared using eVS under 2.9 must show “eVS” either to the left of required line 3 information or directly below line 3 using the same size and lettering used for line 3. At the mailer's option, pallet placards prepared for destination entry may have the correct destination entry office information printed left-justified on line 3 only under these conditions:

c. For all options (8.6.6a and 8.6.6b), the origin entry office or mailer location information must be printed in a minimum 12 point font and may be abbreviated to show the mailer's name and ZIP Code of location.

It is recommended that mailers preparing bundles on pallets add to the pallet label, below the office of mailing or mailer information line and according to the provisions of 8.6.8, additional information listing the number of bundles for each bundle sortation and price level on the pallet (i.e., the number of carrier route bundles, the number of 5-digit, 3-digit, and ADC automation price bundles, and the number of 5-digit, 3-digit, and ADC Presorted price bundles on each pallet).

The mailer (or publisher or agent) must submit a written request to Business Mailer Support to present the types of pallets described in this section. A separate request is required for each type of pallet at each location, but multiple, concurrent applications are acceptable. A mailer who cannot meet the minimum palletization standards without copalletizing, combining, or commingling mixed price mailings might still qualify if the total copalletized, combined, or commingled mailing meets minimum pallet standards. The request must be received at least 30 days before the first mailing and include the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of the mail owner and of the firm or person preparing the mail; a description of the mailing (e.g., size, weight, class, price, volume, mailing frequency, and postage payment method); the type of authorization requested; and a sample of the applicable documentation under 8.0, or 10.0, 12.0, and 13.0.

To combine more than one Periodicals publication on pallets, the mailer must merge and presort copies of all the publications into common bundles to achieve the finest presort level for the combined mailing. To copalletize different Periodicals flat-size publications, the mailer must consolidate on pallets all independently sorted bundles for each publication to achieve the finest presort level for the mailing. Postage for copalletized mailings of flat-size Periodicals must be paid at the consolidator's site. A combined or copalletized mailing prepared using bundle reallocation under 8.11 or 8.13 may not always result in all bundles being placed on the finest pallet level possible. Both combined and copalletized publications must be supported by the documentation required in 8.0, or 10.0, 12.0, and 13.0. Preferred Periodicals may be combined with Regular Periodicals only as permitted by standard.

To copalletize different Standard Mail flat-size mailings, the mailer must consolidate on pallets all trays or bundles from each mailing to achieve the finest presort level for the mailing, except that a flat-size copalletized mailing prepared under 8.11 or 8.14 using the bundle reallocation option may not always result in all bundles on the finest pallet level possible. At the time of mailing, the mailer must present computer-generated listings required in 8.0, or 10.0, 12.0, and 13.0 that include a summary list consolidating the copalletized multiple mailings and a list of the contents of each pallet by ZIP Code and presort level. For Standard Mail letter-size pieces, the presort level of the mailpieces in the copalletized mailing must accurately reflect the postage and entry discount paid at the origin site; and may not always result in the finest pallet presort level possible. Origin mailers participating in a copalletized mailing of Standard Mail letters in trays must prepare a separate postage statement for the portion entered at the origin site and another postage statement for the portion directed to the consolidator.

Presort destination bundles of Periodicals, Standard Mail, and Package Services flats and irregular parcels may be placed directly on pallets under8.9.2 through 8.9.5 and 8.10. Mail that cannot be placed on pallets must be prepared in sacks under the applicable standards. Sacks containing any remaining bundles after all pallets are prepared may be presented with the palletized portion of the mailing job (and, subject to8.16.5, reported on the same postage statement) if the sacked portion is presented separately from the palletized portion.

2. For nonidentical-weight pieces, mailers must either use the minimum that applies to the average piece weight for the entire mailing (divide the net weight of the mailing by the number of pieces; the resulting average single-piece weight determines whether the 10-piece or 10-pound minimum applies). Alternatively, bundle by the actual piece count or mail weight for each bundle destination, provided documentation can be presented with the mailing that shows (specifically for each bundle) the number of pieces and their total weight.

1. Only individual pieces of flats or irregular parcels that weigh less than 10 pounds each may be prepared as bundles on pallets. Presorted price pieces that weigh 10 or more pounds each must be prepared and palletized as machinable parcels under 8.10.4, or prepared in sacks under 265.5.0for flats and 265.5.0for parcels. Carrier route pieces that individually weigh 10 or more pounds each must either be prepared and palletized as machinable parcels under 8.10.4, and qualify for Presorted prices or be prepared in sacks under 265.6.0for flats and 265.5.0for parcels and qualify for carrier route prices.

2. Bundles must be prepared under 265.5.0for presorted flats and 265.5.0for presorted parcels, or 11.0, as appropriate. The minimum bundle size is 10 addressed pieces or 10 pounds, whichever occurs first, except that the last bundle to a presort destination may contain fewer than 10 pieces or weigh less than 10 pounds. When there are at least 10 pieces but less than 10 pounds for a presort destination, the pieces must be prepared in a single physical bundle. The maximum physical bundle size for pallets prepared under 8.10.4a through 8.10.4d, and 8.10.5a through 8.10.5g is 40 pounds. The maximum physical bundle size for pallets prepared under 8.10.4d through 8.10.4h, and 8.10.5g through 8.10.5k is 20 pounds. The total number of bundles for a single presort destination must not exceed the number of 10-pound increments to that destination. Each physical bundle must contain at least two addressed pieces.

Mailers may palletize First-Class Mail according to a local customer/supplier agreement or under 8.10.1. First-Class Mail palletization is optional, but mailers using this option must prepare pallets in the sequence listed below and complete each required level before preparing the next optional or required level. Pallets must contain at least 72 linear feet of letter trays (six full layers) or 24 linear feet of flats trays (three full layers). Maximum pallet height is 12 layers or 77 inches of letter trays (whichever occurs first) or 77 inches of flats trays. When available and with approval by the plant manager of the origin facility, mailers may use all-purpose containers (APCs) or other USPS-approved containers. Mailers approved to use APCs must prepare containers when they have a minimum of 48 linear feet of letter trays or 16 linear feet of flats trays to a presort destination. Preparation, sequence, and labeling:

b. b. Origin SCF (local mail). Required; no minimum. Pallets contain trays destined for the 3-digit ZIP Codes serviced by the origin SCF facility in L005; all MXD AADC and MXD ADC trays. Mailers may place AADC or ADC trays on origin SCF pallets when the tray's “label to” 3-digit ZIP Code (from L801 for AADC trays and L004 for ADC trays) is within the origin SCF's service area; and must place trays containing pieces paid at the single-piece price on origin SCF pallets, unless required to be presented separately by special postage payment authorization or customer service agreement (CSA). Labeling:

c. SCF. Required. For destinations listed in L201, based on origin ZIP Code. Pallets contain trays destined for the 3-digit ZIP Codes in L005. Mailers may, at their option, place AADC or ADC trays on SCF pallets when the tray's “label to” 3-digit ZIP Code (from L801 for AADC trays and L004 for ADC trays) is within that SCF's service area. Labeling:

[5-31-15] Pallets must be prepared under 8.0 in the sequence listed below and completed at each required level before the next optional or required level is prepared. Unless indicated as optional, all sort levels are required under the conditions shown. See 207.29.0 for additional requirements for destination entry prices eligibility. For mailings of sacks or trays on pallets, pallet preparation begins with 8.10.2e. Pallets must be labeled according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under 8.6. All pallets prepared under 8.10.2 may contain firm bundles, and pallets prepared under 8.10.2a through 8.10.2h may contain low-volume bundles. Bundles of Periodicals flats and irregular parcels may also be palletized under 10.0, 12.0, or 13.0. For pieces meeting the standards in 207.26.0, mailers may prepare the nonpalletized (residual) portion of a mailing in sacks under 10.0. Prepare pallets in the following sequence:

c. 5-digit scheme, required, permitted for bundles only. Not permitted for bundles containing automation-compatible flats under 201.6.0. Required for bundles containing all other flats and irregular parcels. Pallet must contain only 5-digit bundles of automation price and/or Presorted price mail for the same 5-digit scheme under L001. For 5-digit destinations not part of L001, 5-digit pallet preparation begins with 8.10.2f. Labeling:

f. 5-digit, required, except for trays; permitted for bundles, sacks, and trays. Pallet must contain only automation price and/or Presorted price mail for the same 5-digit ZIP Code or the same 5-digit scheme under L007 (for automation- compatible flats only under 201.6.0). Five-digit scheme bundles are assigned to pallets according to the “label to” 5-digit ZIP Code in L007. Labeling:

g. 3-digit, optional, option not available for bundles for 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes marked “N” in L002. Pallet may contain mail for the same 3-digit ZIP Code or the same 3-digit scheme under L008 (for automation-compatible flats only under 201.6.0). Three-digit scheme bundles are assigned to pallets according to the “label to” 3-digit ZIP Code in L008. Labeling:

j. Origin Mixed ADC (OMX),optional for sacks and trays; allowed with no minimum and required at 100 pounds of mail for bundles of flats. Bundles of flats totaling less than 100 pounds in weight must be sacked if not palletized. Pallet may contain carrier route, automation price, and presorted price mail. Labeling:

k. Mixed ADC, optional for sacks and trays; allowed with no minimum and required at 100 pounds of mail for bundles of flats. Bundles of flats totaling less than 100 pounds in weight must be sacked if not palletized. Pallet may contain carrier route, automation price, or presorted price mail. Pallets must not contain sacks, trays or bundles that should be properly placed on the origin mixed ADC (OMX) pallet. Labeling:

[5-31-15] Mailers must prepare pallets under 8.0 in the sequence listed below and complete each required level before preparing the next optional or required level. Unless indicated as optional, all sort levels are required. For parcels, use this preparation only for irregular parcels in sacks or Marketing parcels prepared as Product Samples in carrier route bundles, sacks or cartons. For Product Samples, only 5-digit pallets under 8.10.3b and 3-digit pallets under 8.10.3d are allowed, and the pallets must be entered under DNDC or DSCF standards only. Use this preparation, starting with 8.10.3c, for sacks of Parcel Select Lightweight irregular parcels not eligible for preparation under 8.10.8 (use “PSLW” for the line 2 contents description instead of “STD”). Palletize unbundled or unsacked irregular parcels under 8.10.8. Pallets must be labeled according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under 8.6. Mailers also may palletize bundles of Standard Mail flats under 10.0, 12.0, or 13.0. Preparation sequence and labeling:

2. Line 2: For flats and Marketing parcels (Product Samples only), “STD FLTS” or "STD MKTG,” as applicable; followed by “CARRIER ROUTES” (or “CR-RTS”). For letters, “STD LTRS”; followed by “CARRIER ROUTES” (or “CR-RTS”); followed by “BC” if pallet contains barcoded letters; followed by “MACH” if pallet contains machinable letters; followed by “MAN” if pallet contains nonmachinable letters.

c. 5-digit, required except for trays, permitted for bundles, sacks, and trays. Pallet must contain only automation price and/or Presorted price mail for the same 5-digit ZIP Code or same 5-digit scheme. 5-digit scheme bundles and sacks are assigned to 5-digit pallets according to the “label to” 5-digit ZIP Code. Labeling:

2. Line 2: For flats and irregular parcels, “STD” followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG,” as applicable; followed by “5D”; followed by “BARCODED” (or “BC”) if pallet contains automation price mail; followed by “NONBARCODED” (or “NBC”) if pallet contains Presorted price mail. For letters, “STD LTRS 5D”; followed by “BC” if pallet contains barcoded letters; followed by “MACH” if pallet contains machinable letters; followed by “MAN” if pallet contains nonmachinable letters.

d. 3-digit, optional, option not available for parcels other than Product Sample parcels or for bundles for 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes marked “N” in L002. Pallet may contain mail for the same 3-digit ZIP Code or the same 3-digit scheme under L008 (for automation-compatible flats only under 201.3.0. Three-digit scheme bundles are assigned to pallets according to the “label to” 3-digit ZIP Code in L008. Labeling:

2. Line 2: For flats, “STD” followed by “FLTS;” followed by “3D”; followed by “BARCODED” (or “BC”) if pallet contains automation price mail; followed by “NONBARCODED” (or “NBC”) if pallet contains carrier route and/or Presorted price mail. For letters, “STD LTRS 3D”; followed by “BC” if pallet contains barcoded letters; followed by “MACH” if pallet contains machinable letters; followed by “MAN” if pallet contains nonmachinable letters. For Marketing parcels (Product Samples only), use "STD MKTG."

e. SCF, required, permitted for bundles, sacks, and trays. Pallet may contain carrier route, automation price, and/or Presorted price mail for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L005. Mailers may, at their option, place AADC trays on SCF pallets when the tray's “label to” 3-digit ZIP Code (from L801) is within that SCF's service area. Mailers may also, at their option, place mixed ADC or mixed AADC trays, labeled per L010, on an SCF pallet entered at the SCF facility responsible for the processing of mixed ADC or mixed AADC trays for that NDC/ASF facility. Labeling:

2. Line 2: For flats and irregular parcels, “STD” followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG,” as applicable; followed by “SCF”; followed by “BARCODED” (or “BC”) if pallet contains automation price mail; followed by “NONBARCODED” (or “NBC”) if pallet contains carrier route and/or Presorted price mail. For letters, “STD LTRS SCF”; followed by “BC” if pallet contains barcoded letters; followed by “MACH” if pallet contains machinable letters; followed by “MAN” if pallet contains nonmachinable letters.

f. ASF, required unless bundle reallocation used under 8.13, permitted for bundles, sacks, and trays. Pallet may contain carrier route, automation price, and/or Presorted price mail for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L602. ADC bundles, sacks, or trays are assigned to pallets according to the “label to” ZIP Code inL004 as appropriate. AADC trays are assigned to pallets according to the “label to” ZIP Code in L801. At the mailer’s option, appropriate mixed ADC bundles and sacks of flats; and mixed ADC and mixed AADC trays of letters, may be sorted to ASF pallets according to the “label to” ZIP Code in L010. All mixed ADC bundles, sacks, and trays and mixed AADC trays must contain only pieces destinating within the ASF as shown in L602. Labeling:

2. Line 2: For flats and irregular parcels, “STD” followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG,” as applicable; followed by “ASF”; followed by “BARCODED” (or “BC”) if pallet contains automation price mail; followed by “NONBARCODED” (or “NBC”) if pallet contains carrier route and/or Presorted price mail. For letters, “STD LTRS ASF”; followed by “BC” if pallet contains barcoded letters; followed by “MACH” if pallet contains machinable letters; followed by “MAN” if pallet contains nonmachinable letters.

g. NDC, required, permitted for bundles, sacks, and trays. Pallet may contain carrier route, automation price, and/or Presorted price mail for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L601. ADC bundles, sacks, or trays are assigned to pallets according to the “label to” ZIP Code in L004 as appropriate. AADC trays are assigned to pallets according to the “label to” ZIP Code in L801. At the mailer’s option, appropriate mixed ADC bundles and sacks of flats; and mixed ADC trays and mixed AADC trays of letters, may be sorted to NDC pallets according to the “label to” ZIP Code in L010. All mixed ADC bundles, sacks, and trays and mixed AADC trays must contain only pieces destinating within the NDC as shown in L601. Labeling:

2. Line 2: For flats and irregular parcels, “STD” followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG,” as applicable; followed by “NDC”; followed by “BARCODED” (or “BC”) if pallet contains automation price mail; followed by “NONBARCODED” (or “NBC”) if pallet contains carrier route and/or Presorted price mail. For letters, “STD LTRS NDC”; followed by “BC” if pallet contains barcoded letters; followed by “MACH” if pallet contains machinable letters; followed by “MAN” if pallet contains nonmachinable letters.

2. Line 2: For flats and irregular parcels, “STD” followed by “FLTS” or “IRREG,” as applicable; followed by “BARCODED” (or “BC”) if pallet contains automation price mail; followed by “NONBARCODED” (or “NBC”) if pallet contains carrier route and/or Presorted price mail; followed by “WKG.” For letters, “STD LTRS”; followed by “BC” if pallet contains barcoded letters; followed by “MACH” if pallet contains machinable letters; followed by “MAN” if pallet contains nonmachinable letters; followed by “WKG.”

Pallets must be prepared under 8.0 in the sequence listed below and completed at each required level before the next optional or required level is prepared. Unless indicated as optional, all sort levels are required under the conditions shown. Carrier route mail and Presorted price mail with a barcode apply only to Bound Printed Matter mailings. Destination entry price eligibility also applies only to Bound Printed Matter (see 266for flats). At the mailer’s option, all Package Services flats may be prepared for destination entry. For mailings of sacks on pallets, pallet preparation begins with 8.10.4b. Label pallets under 8.6 and according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below:

a. 5-digit scheme carrier routes, required, permitted for bundles only. Pallet must contain only carrier route bundles for the same 5-digit scheme under L001. For 5-digit destinations not part of L001, 5-digit carrier routes pallet preparation begins with 8.10.4b. Labeling:

c. 5-digit, required, permitted for bundles and sacks. Pallet must contain only Presorted price mail with or without a barcode for the same 5-digit ZIP Code or same 5-digit scheme under L007 (for automation-compatible flats only under 201.3.0). Five-digit scheme bundles are assigned to pallets according to the “label to” 5-digit ZIP Code in L007. Labeling:

d. 3-digit, optional, option not available for bundles for 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes marked “N” in L002. Pallet may contain mail with or without a barcode for the same 3-digit ZIP Code or the same 3-digit scheme under L008 (for automation-compatible flats only under 201.3.0). Three-digit scheme bundles are assigned to pallets according to the “label to” 3-digit ZIP Code in L008. Labeling:

f. ASF, required, permitted for bundles and sacks. Pallet may contain carrier route and/or Presorted price mail with or without a barcode for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L602. ADC bundles or sacks are assigned to pallets according to the “label to” ZIP Code in L004. At the mailer’s option, appropriate mixed ADC bundles or sacks may be sorted to ASF pallets according to the “label to” ZIP Code in L010. All mixed ADC bundles and sacks must contain only pieces destinating within the ASF as shown in L602. Labeling:

g. NDC, required, permitted for bundles and sacks. Pallet may contain carrier route and/or Presorted price mail with or without a barcode for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L601. ADC bundles or sacks are assigned to pallets according to the “label to” ZIP Code in L004. At the mailer’s option, appropriate mixed ADC bundles or sacks may be sorted to NDC pallets according to the “label to” ZIP Code in L010. All mixed ADC bundles and sacks must contain only pieces destinating within the NDC as shown in L601. Labeling:

Pallets must be prepared under 8.0 in the sequence listed below and completed at each required level before the next optional or required level is prepared. Unless indicated as optional, all sort levels are required under the conditions shown. Carrier route (8.10.5a, 8.10.5b, 8.10.5d, and 8.10.5e) applies to Bound Printed Matter mailings only. Destination entry price eligibility applies only to Parcel Select (see 256) and Bound Printed Matter (see 266 for parcels). At the mailer’s option, all Package Services irregular parcels also may be prepared for destination entry (see 7.0). For mailings of sacks on pallets, pallet preparation begins with 8.10.5e. Label pallets under 8.6 and according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below:

c. 5-digit scheme, required, permitted for bundles only. Pallet must contain only 5-digit bundles of Presorted price mail for the same 5-digit scheme under L001. For 5-digit destinations not part of L001, 5-digit pallet preparation begins with 8.10.5d. Labeling:

i. ASF, required, permitted for bundles and sacks. Pallet may contain carrier route and/or Presorted price mail for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L602. ADC bundles or sacks are assigned to pallets according to the “label to” ZIP Code in L004. At the mailer’s option, appropriate mixed ADC bundles or sacks may be sorted to ASF pallets according to the “label to” ZIP Code in L010. All mixed ADC bundles and sacks must contain only pieces destinating within the ASF as shown in L602. Labeling:

j. NDC, required, permitted for bundles and sacks. Pallet may contain carrier route and/or Presorted price mail for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L601. ADC (L004) bundles or sacks are assigned to pallets according to the “label to” ZIP Code in L004. At the mailer’s option, appropriate mixed ADC bundles or sacks may be sorted to NDC pallets according to the “label to” ZIP Code in L010. All mixed ADC bundles and sacks must contain only pieces destinating within the NDC as shown in L601. Labeling:

Prepare pallets under 8.0 in the sequence below. Unless indicated as optional, all sort levels are required. Combined mailings of Standard Mail Marketing parcels, Standard Mail, Parcel Select, and Package Services machinable parcels also must meet the standards in 6.0 or 21.0. Label pallets according to Line 1 and Line 2 information below and under applicable standards 8.6. Preparation sequence and labeling:

a. 5-digit scheme, required. Pallet must contain parcels for the same 5-digit scheme under L606. For 5-digit destinations not part of L606, or for which scheme sorts are not performed, prepare 5-digit pallets under 8.10.6b. Labeling:

Mailers who palletize machinable parcels must make pallets or pallet boxes when there are 250 pounds or more for the destination levels below for DNDC, DSCF, or DDU prices. When prepared at origin, a 200-pound minimum is required for the NDC price. Prepare pallets under 8.0 in the sequence below. Unless indicated as optional, all sort levels are required. Label pallets under applicable standards in 8.6 and according to Line 1 and Line 2 information below:

a. 5-digit scheme, required. Pallet must contain parcels for the same 5-digit scheme under L606. For 5-digit destinations not part of L606, prepare 5-digit pallets under 8.10.7b , Labeling:

Mailers who palletize unbundled or unsacked irregular parcels must make pallets or pallet boxes when there are 250 pounds or more for the destination levels below for DNDC, DSCF, or DDU prices. When prepared at origin, a 200 pound minimum is required for the NDC price. Prepare pallets or pallet boxes of irregular parcels (except tubes, rolls, and similar pieces) weighing 2 ounces or more under 8.0 and in the sequence listed below. Label pallets or pallet boxes according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under 8.6. Mailers may not prepare tubes, rolls, and similar pieces or pieces that weigh less than 2 ounces on pallets or in pallet boxes, except for pieces in carrier route bundles or in sacks under 8.10.3. Use 8.10.3 for preparation of Parcel Select Lightweight tubes, rolls and similar pieces, and pieces weighing less than 2 ounces. Preparation sequence and labeling:

a. 5-digit scheme, required. Pallet or pallet box must contain parcels only for the same 5-digit scheme under L606. For 5-digit destinations not part of L606 prepare 5-digit pallets under 8.10.8b. Labeling:

Bundle reallocation to protect the SCF pallet is an optional preparation method (if performed, bundle reallocation must be done for the entire mailing job); only PAVE-certified presort software may be used to create pallets under the standards in 8.11.2 through 8.11.4. Presort software determines if mail for an SCF service area would fall beyond the SCF level if all finer level pallets are prepared. Reallocation is performed only when there is mail for the SCF service area that would fall beyond the SCF pallet level (e.g., to an ADC or NDC pallet). The amount of mail required to bring the mail that would fall beyond the SCF level back to an SCF level is the minimum volume that will be reallocated.

a. Bundle preparation is not affected by the reallocation process. Reallocate only complete bundles and only the minimum number of bundles necessary to create an SCF pallet meeting the minimum pallet weight. Based on the weight of individual pieces within a bundle and bundling parameters, the weight of mail that is reallocated may be slightly more than the minimum volume required to create an SCF pallet.

d. When reallocating mail to create an SCF pallet, reallocate mail from only one more finely sorted pallet. This may be accomplished by reallocating a portion of a 3-digit pallet, reallocating all mail from a 3-digit pallet, or reallocating a portion of one of the following pallets: 5-digit, 5-digit carrier routes, merged 5-digit, 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier routes, or merged 5-digit scheme.

a. Attempt to identify a 3-digit pallet of adequate weight that can support reallocation of one or more bundles to bring the mail that has fallen through the SCF level back to the SCF level without eliminating the pallet. A sufficient volume of mail must remain on the 3-digit pallet after reallocation to meet the 3-digit pallet weight minimum established by the mailer in compliance with applicable standards. If a 3-digit pallet of adequate weight is available, create an SCF pallet by combining the reallocated mail from the 3-digit pallet with the mail that would fall beyond the SCF pallet level.

b. If no single 3-digit pallet within the SCF service area contains an adequate volume of mail to allow reallocation of a portion of the mail on a pallet as described in the previous step, then eliminate one 3-digit pallet and reallocate all of the mail to create an SCF pallet by combining it with the mail that would fall beyond the SCF pallet level. As a result, the software will not prepare one 3-digit pallet for the SCF service area if it is detrimental to the SCF pallet.

c. If preparation is under 8.0 and there are no 3-digit pallets, attempt to identify a 5-digit level pallet of adequate weight to support reallocation of one or more bundles to bring the mail that would fall beyond the SCF pallet level back to the SCF level. If preparation is under 10.0, 12.0, or 13.0 and there are no 3-digit pallets, attempt to identify a 5-digit level pallet of adequate weight to support reallocation of one or more bundles to bring the mail that would fall beyond the SCF pallet level back to the SCF level. A sufficient volume of mail must remain on the applicable pallet after reallocation to meet the pallet weight minimum established by the mailer in compliance with applicable standards. If a 5-digit level pallet of adequate weight is available, create an SCF pallet by combining the reallocated bundles with the mail that would fall beyond the SCF pallet level.

a. Attempt to identify a 5-digit level pallet of adequate weight to support reallocation of one or more bundles to bring the mail that would fall beyond the SCF pallet level back to the SCF level. A sufficient volume of mail must remain on the 5-digit level pallet after reallocation to meet the pallet weight minimum established by the mailer in compliance with applicable standards. If a 5-digit level pallet of adequate weight is available, create an SCF pallet by combining the reallocated bundles with the mail that would fall beyond the SCF pallet level.

Bundle reallocation to protect the ADC pallet is an optional preparation method authorized for mailers using PAVE-certified presort software and may be used to create pallets under the standards in 8.12.2 and 8.12.3. Presort software determines if mail for an ADC service area falls beyond the ADC level if all finer level pallets are prepared. Reallocation is performed only when there is mail for the ADC service area that falls beyond the ADC pallet level (e.g., to sacks). Reallocate only the minimum number of bundles necessary to create an ADC pallet at the minimum required weight.

a. Bundle preparation is not affected by the reallocation process. Reallocate only complete bundles and only the minimum number of bundles necessary to create an ADC pallet meeting the minimum pallet weight. Based on the weight of individual pieces within a bundle and bundling parameters, the weight of mail that is reallocated may be slightly more than the minimum volume required to create an ADC pallet.

Bundle reallocation to protect the NDC pallet level is an optional preparation method (if performed, bundle reallocation must be done for the complete mailing job); only PAVE-certified presort software may be used to create pallets under the standards in 8.13.2 through 8.13.4. The software will determine if mail for a NDC service area would fall beyond the NDC level when ASF pallets are prepared. Reallocation is performed only when there is mail for the NDC service area that would fall beyond the NDC pallet level as a result of an ASF pallet being prepared. The amount required to bring the mail back to the NDC level is the minimum volume that would be reallocated from an ASF pallet, when possible. The following “parent” NDCs can be protected with bundle reallocation by using mail from the ASF “child” pallets indicated in Exhibit 8.13.1.

a. The reallocation process does not affect bundle preparation. Reallocate only complete bundles and only the minimum number of bundles necessary to create a NDC pallet that meets the minimum pallet weight. Based on the weight of individual pieces within a bundle and bundling parameters, the weight of mail that is reallocated may be slightly more than the minimum volume required to create a NDC pallet.

b. Use Exhibit 8.13.1 to reallocate bundles from the ASF pallet to create a NDC pallet. The ASF pallet may be eliminated to protect the NDC pallet.

a. Use Exhibit 8.13.1 to identify an ASF pallet of adequate weight that can support reallocation of one or more bundles to bring the mail that has fallen through the NDC level back to the NDC level without eliminating the ASF pallet. A sufficient amount of mail must remain on the ASF pallet after reallocation to meet the minimum ASF pallet weight. If an ASF pallet of adequate weight is available, then create a NDC pallet by combining the reallocated mail from the ASF pallet with the mail that would fall beyond the NDC pallet level.

a. Combined mailings. When two or more publications are part of a combined mailing, the mailer must keep records for each mailing (publication) as required by standard.

b. Destination Delivery Unit prices. Pieces claimed at destination delivery unit prices do not require separation from pieces claimed at other prices on the same pallet.

c. Carrier route mail on separate 5-digit pallets. Carrier route sorted pieces must be prepared on separate 5-digit pallets (5-digit carrier routes or 5-digit scheme carrier routes pallets). Exception: When flats are prepared as bundles on pallets under 10.0, 12.0, or 13.0, then carrier route mail, 5-digit machinable barcoded price mail, and 5-digit machinable nonbarcoded price mail may be placed on the same merged 5-digit pallet or on the same merged 5-digit scheme pallet for those 5-digit ZIP Codes for which 1) there are “A” or “C” indicators in the City State Product under 10.0, or 2) the 5-digit bundles are within the 5% threshold requirement under 12.0, or 3) the 5-digit bundles are either all for 5-digit ZIP Codes that have an “A” or “C” indicator in the City State Product or are for 5-digit ZIP Codes with a “B” or “D” indicator in the City State Product and the pieces in such 5-digit bundles meet the 5% threshold under 13.0.

a. Combined mailings. Nonprofit Standard Mail may be included in the same mailing or palletized on the same pallet as Regular Standard Mail only as permitted by standard. Mailers may include machinable parcels, irregular parcels, and Not Flat-Machinable pieces on 5-digit pallets.

c. Carrier route mail on separate 5-digit pallets. Carrier route price pieces must be prepared on separate 5-digit pallets (5-digit carrier routes or 5-digit scheme carrier routes pallets) from automation price and/or Presorted price pieces (prepared on 5-digit pallets or 5-digit scheme pallets). Exception: When flat-size pieces are prepared as bundles on pallets under 10.0, 12.0, or 13.0, then carrier route sorted mail, 5-digit sorted automation price mail, and 5-digit sorted Presorted price mail may be placed on the same merged 5-digit pallet or on the same merged 5-digit scheme pallet for those 5-digit ZIP Codes for which 1) there are “A” or “C” indicators in the City State Product under 10.0, or 2) the 5-digit bundles are within the 5% threshold requirement under 12.0, or 3) the 5-digit bundles are either all for 5-digit ZIP Codes that have an “A” or “C” indicator in the City State Product, or are for 5-digit ZIP Codes with a “B” or “D” indicator in the City State Product and the pieces in such 5-digit bundles meet the 5% threshold under 13.0.

Trays must be sleeved and strapped under 235.3.0for First-Class Mail letters, 245.3.0for Standard Mail letters, 235.3.0for First-Class Mail flats, 245.3.0for Standard Mail flats, 265.3.0for Bound Printed Matter flats, or 275.3.0for Media Mail flats and Library Mail flats,except that strapping is not required for any letter tray placed on a 5-digit, 3-digit, or SCF pallet secured with stretchwrap. In addition, if the processing and distribution manager gives a written waiver, strapping is not required for any letter tray that originates and destinates in the same SCF (mail processing plant) service area.

Copalletized letter- and flat-size mailings must meet the applicable standards in 8.0. In addition, if copalletized under 10.0, 12.0, or 13.0, the applicable provisions of that preparation option must also be met. Any combination of automation mailings and nonautomation mailings is subject to the restrictions in 8.14. Trays and bundles in a copalletized mailing qualify for the appropriate presort level price, regardless of the pallet level on which they are placed. Mailers participating in copalletized mailings must:

c. Documentation meeting the basic standard in 708.1.0 must be provided with each mailing. Before copalletizing, the mailer must obtain the written approval of the Business Mailer Support manager. Approval is based on the mailer’s demonstrated ability to provide documentation meeting these standards:

1. Documentation by bundle and by publication and edition showing the number of addressed pieces and copies in each bundle and the per piece presort price claimed, or a listing by pallet showing (by presort level and destination) the number of copies and pieces for each publication and edition. For large volume mailing jobs reported on a single listing, the mailer may provide the abbreviated documentation in 708.b.

a. Machinable pieces must be sorted to NDCs under L601 in 69-inch pallet boxes. Each pallet box must contain at least 52 inches of mail (not including pallet) for a NDC. Overflow pallet boxes are not permitted. Preparation in sacks, directly on pallets, or in other containers is not permitted.

a. Nonmachinable pieces must be sorted to NDCs and ASFs under L605 directly on pallets. Each pallet for a NDC or ASF destination must have a minimum height of 42 inches of mail (not including the height of the pallet). Overflow pallets are not permitted. Preparation in sacks, pallet boxes, or in other containers is not permitted.

a. Machinable pieces must be sorted to NDCs under L601 in 69-inch pallet boxes. Each pallet box must contain at least 52 inches of mail (not including pallet) for a NDC. Overflow pallet boxes are not permitted. Preparation in sacks, directly on pallets, or in other containers is not permitted.

b. Pallet box preparation and Line 1 labeling: destination NDC, required; for Line 1, use L601.

a. Nonmachinable pieces must be sorted to NDCs and ASFs under L605 directly on pallets. Each pallet for a NDC or ASF destination must have a minimum height of 42 inches of mail (not including the height of the pallet). Overflow pallets are not allowed. Preparation in sacks, pallet boxes, or in other containers is not permitted.

a. General. Parcels for each SCF area must be sorted to 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, or 3-digit (nonmachinable) destinations on pallets. For purposes of this section, the term “pallets” includes preparation of parcels directly on pallets and in pallet boxes on pallets. Except when prepared under 8.20.2, each 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, and 3-digit pallet must meet a minimum volume requirement under one of the criteria in 8.20.1b. Machinable and nonmachinable pieces may be combined on the same pallet or in the same overflow sack when sorted to 5-digit scheme or 5-digit destinations. In a single mailing mailers may prepare some pallets under the minimum volume requirement in 8.20.1b..1. and some pallets under the minimum volume requirement in 8.20.1b..2.. A mailing entered at a destination SCF facility containing pallets prepared under 8.20.1 also may include mail that is sacked for the DSCF price. Double-stacking is permitted if the requirements of 8.3 are met.

b. Minimum volume. The minimum volume per 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, and 3-digit pallet can be met in one of the following ways:

c. Overflow. After filling a pallet(s) to a 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, or 3-digit destination, any remaining pieces that do not meet the minimum pallet requirements may be prepared in one or both of the following ways:

g. Separation. If sacks prepared under 255are included in the same mailing as pallets prepared under this section, at the time of acceptance the mailer must separate sacks that are overflow from palletized mail from those sacks that were prepared under the provisions of 255.

a. General. All DSCF price mail in the mailing must be sorted to 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, or 3-digit nonmachinable destinations under 8.20.2 (i.e., mail prepared under 8.20.1 and mail sacked under 255.4.2 must not be included in a mailing prepared under 8.20.2). For purposes of this section, the term “pallets” includes preparation of parcels directly on pallets and in pallet boxes on pallets. Machinable and nonmachinable pieces may be combined on the same pallet. Double-stacking is permitted if the requirements of 8.3 are met.

b. Minimum volume. To qualify for the DSCF price, no pallet may contain fewer than 35 pieces and 200 pounds, and for the entire mailing the average number of DSCF price pieces per 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, or 3-digit destination must be at least 50.

c. Overflow. After filling pallets to a 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, or 3-digit destination, any remaining pieces that do not meet the minimum pallet requirements may be prepared in one or both of the following ways:

g. Documentation. A list of each 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, and 3-digit pallet in the mailing that qualifies for the DSCF price must be submitted. The pallets in the mailing that qualify for the DSCF price must be renumbered sequentially, and this pallet identification number must be printed below Line 3 on the pallet label. The documentation must list each pallet in sequential order by pallet identification number. For each pallet, the listing must show: the pallet identification number, the applicable 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, or 3-digit destination of the pallet, the total weight of pieces on the pallet, the total number of pieces on the pallet, and the running total of pieces (i.e., the number equal to the number of pieces for that pallet plus the sum of the pieces on all pallets listed before it). This documentation must not include: pieces prepared in overflow sacks at the DSCF prices, pieces prepared on overflow pallets at the DNDC prices, or pieces claimed at any other price in the mailing.

Mailers who prepared DSCF price mail in 5-digit scheme or 5-digit sacks under 255.4.2 may place 5-digit sacks for the same SCF area on an SCF pallet (including a pallet box on a pallet). Mailers who prepare overflow from pallets under 8.20.1 or 8.20.2 may place 5-digit scheme or 5-digit sacks for the same SCF area on an SCF pallet (including a pallet box on a pallet). See 8.20.1g for requirements concerning separation of sacks prepared under 255.4.2 from sacks prepared under 8.20.1. There are no pallet minimums for such pallets. Mailers may prepare such SCF pallets without preparing all possible 5-digit scheme and 5-digit pallets. The pallets must be labeled in the following manner:

Parcels may be bedloaded, sacked, or palletized. For purposes of this section the term “pallets” includes preparation of parcels directly on pallets and preparation of parcels in pallet boxes on pallets. There are no preparation or presort requirements for DDU price mailings other than separation by 5-digit scheme and 5-digit destination. Machinable and nonmachinable pieces may be combined. Refer to the Drop Shipment Product maintained by the National Customer Support Center (NCSC) (see 608.8.0) and the information in 255.4.1. If a DDU facility cannot handle pallets, and a mailer transports mail to the DDU facility on pallets, the driver must unload the pallets into a container specified by the delivery unit. If pieces are sacked or palletized, they must be prepared to 5-digit scheme (optional) and 5-digit destinations, and labeled as follows:

h. A complete, signed postage statement, using the correct USPS form or an approved facsimile, must accompany each mailing job prepared under these procedures. In addition to the applicable postage statement, documentation produced by PAVE-certified software or standardized documentation under 708.1.0 must be submitted with each cotrayed mailing job that describes for each tray sortation level the number of pieces qualifying for each applicable automation price and the number of pieces qualifying for the Presorted price.

c. Origin/entry 3-digit, required for each 3-digit ZIP Code served by the SCF of the origin (verification) office, optional for each 3-digit ZIP Code served by the SCF of an entry office other than the origin office, no minimum; labeling:

1. Line 1: use L201; for mail originating in ZIP Code areas in Column A, use “MXD” followed by the city, state, and 3-digit ZIP Code prefix in the corresponding row in Column C (use “MXD” instead of “OMX” in the destination line and ignore Column B).

e. A complete, signed, appropriate postage statement(s), using the correct USPS form or an approved facsimile, must accompany each mailing job prepared under these procedures. In addition to the applicable postage statement, documentation produced by PAVE-certified software or standardized documentation under 708.1.0 must be submitted with each cosacked mailing job that describes for each sack sortation level the number of pieces qualifying for each applicable price.

5-digit and 3-digit bundles prepared under 207.22.0 and 207.25.0 may contain fewer than six pieces when the publisher determines that such preparation improves service. These low-volume bundles may be placed in 5-digit, 3-digit, and SCF sacks that contain at least 24 pieces or on 5-digit, 3-digit, or SCF pallets. Pieces in low-volume bundles must claim the applicable mixed ADC price (Outside-County) or basic price (In-County).

Machinable barcoded price and machinable nonbarcoded price bundles must be presorted together into sacks (cosacked) in the sequence listed below. Sacks must be labeled using the following information for Lines 1 and 2 and 207.21.0 for other sack label criteria. If, due to the physical size of the mailpieces, the machinable barcoded price pieces are considered flat-size under 201.3.0 and the machinable nonbarcoded price pieces are considered irregular parcels under 201.1.0, the processing category shown on the sack label must show “FLTS.”

f. Origin mixed ADC,required for any remaining pieces for destinations in L201, Column B, corresponding to the origin ZIP Code in Column A. There is no minimum for the number of pieces in the sack, but bundles of fewer than six pieces at 5-digit, 3-digit, and ADC bundle levels are not permitted.

As an option, mailers may place in flats trays (see 207.20.0) machinable pieces meeting the criteria in 201.3.0 that would normally be placed in sacks. Mailers must either bundle or group all pieces as specified in 207.25.0 and 207.22.0 for each 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, 3-digit scheme, 3-digit, SCF, and ADC destination. Bundling is not permitted unless it achieves a finer presort than the presort destination of the tray. The trays are subject to a container charge, and any bundles are subject to a bundle charge. Tray preparation, sequence, and labeling:

h. A complete, signed postage statement(s), using the correct USPS form or an approved facsimile, must accompany each mailing job prepared under these procedures. In addition to the applicable postage statement, documentation produced by PAVE-certified software or standardized documentation under 708.1.0 must be submitted with each cosacked mailing job that describes for each sack sortation level the number of pieces qualifying for each applicable automation price and the number of pieces qualifying for each applicable Presorted price.

c. Origin/entry 3-digit, required for each 3-digit ZIP Code served by the SCF of the origin (verification) office, optional for each 3-digit ZIP Code served by the SCF of an entry office other than the origin office, no minimum; labeling:

h. A complete, signed postage statement(s), using the correct USPS form or an approved facsimile, must accompany each mailing job prepared under these procedures. In addition to the applicable postage statement, standardized documentation under 708.1.0 must be submitted with each cosacked mailing job that describes for each sack sortation level the number of pieces qualifying for the barcode discount and the number of pieces qualifying for each applicable Presorted price.

Throughout 10.1, trays may be used in lieu of sacks, even when the language specifies just "sacks." Carrier route bundles in a carrier route mailing may be placed in the same sack or on the same pallet as 5-digit bundles from machinable (barcoded or nonbarcoded) price mailings (including pieces cobundled under 11.0) under the following conditions:

e. Carrier route bundles may be cosacked or copalletized with machinable barcoded price 5-digit bundles, machinable nonbarcoded price 5-digit bundles, and cobundled 5-digit bundles only for those 5-digit ZIP Codes that have an “A” or “C” indicator in the Carrier Route Indicators field in the City State Product indicating eligibility for such cosacking or copalletization. Containers of mail sorted in this manner are called “merged 5-digit” sacks or pallets. Containers of mail sorted in this manner for which scheme (L001) sortation is also performed are called “merged 5-digit scheme” sacks or pallets. Pieces in 5-digit scheme (L007) bundles may not be placed in merged 5-digit containers.

i. A complete, signed postage statement(s), using the correct USPS form or an approved facsimile, must accompany each mailing job prepared under these procedures. In addition to the postage statement(s), documentation prepared by PAVE-certified software must be submitted with each cosacked or copalletized mailing job that describes for each sack sortation level and sack, or each pallet sortation level and pallet, the number of pieces qualifying for each applicable price.

a. Sacked mailings. The carrier route mailing must be bundled and labeled under 207.23.0. Except when prepared under the cobundling option in 11.0, the barcoded price mailing must be bundled and labeled under 207.25.0 and the nonbarcoded price mailing must be bundled and labeled under 207.22.0.

Carrier route, 5-digit scheme, 5-digit, 3-digit scheme, and 3-digit bundles may contain fewer than six pieces when the publisher determines that such preparation improves service. Pieces in these low-volume bundles must be claimed at the applicable mixed ADC price (Outside-County) or basic price (In-County). Low-volume bundles are permitted only when they are sacked or prepared on pallets as follows:

All carrier route bundles must be placed in sacks under 10.1.4a. through 10.1.4e. and 10.1.4h. as described below. When sorting is performed under this section, mailers must prepare merged 5-digit scheme sacks, 5-digit scheme carrier routes sacks, and merged 5-digit sacks for all possible 5-digit schemes or 5-digit ZIP Codes as applicable, using L001 (merged 5-digit scheme and 5-digit scheme carrier routes sort only) and the Carrier Route Indicators field in the City State Product when there is enough volume for the 5-digit scheme or 5-digit ZIP Code to prepare such sacks under 10.1.4. Mailers must label sacks according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under 207.20.1. If, due to the physical size of the mailpieces, the barcoded pieces are considered flat-size under 207.26.0, and the carrier route pieces and nonbarcoded pieces are considered irregular parcels under 201.1.0, “FLTS” must be shown as the processing category on the sack label. If a mailing job does not contain barcoded price pieces and the carrier route pieces and the nonbarcoded pieces are irregular parcel shaped, use “IRREG” for the processing category on the contents line of the label. Mailers must prepare sacks containing carrier route and 5-digit bundles from the carrier route, barcoded, and nonbarcoded mailings in the mailing job in the following manner and sequence:

a. Carrier route, required, may contain only carrier route bundles. Must be prepared when there are 72 or more pieces for the same carrier route. Optional at 24 pieces minimum. Labeling:

b. Merged 5-digit scheme, required at 72 pieces, optional at 24 pieces minimum. Must contain at least one 5-digit ZIP Code in the scheme with an “A” or “C” indicator in the City State Product. May contain carrier route bundles for any 5-digit ZIP Code(s) in a single scheme listed in L001 as well as machinable barcoded price 5-digit bundles and machinable nonbarcoded price 5-digit bundles for those 5-digit ZIP Codes in the schemes that have an “A” or “C” indicator in the City State Product. For 5-digit ZIP Code(s) in a scheme that has a “B” or “D” indicator in the City State Product, prepare sack(s) under 10.1.4g. and 10.1.4h.. For 5-digit ZIP Codes not included in a scheme, prepare sacks under 10.1.4d. through 10.1.4h.. Labeling:

c. 5-digit scheme carrier routes, required at 72 pieces, optional at 24 pieces minimum. May contain only carrier route bundles for 5-digit ZIP Code(s) in a single scheme listed in L001 when all the 5-digits in the scheme have a “B” or “D” indicator in the City State Product. Mailers must prepare this sack if there are any carrier route bundle(s) for such a scheme. Labeling:

d. Merged 5-digit, required at 72 pieces, optional at 24 pieces minimum. Must be prepared only for those 5-digit ZIP Codes that are not part of a scheme and that have an “A” or “C” indicator in the City State Product. May contain carrier route bundles, machinable barcoded price 5-digit bundles, and machinable nonbarcoded price 5-digit bundles. Labeling:

e. 5-digit carrier routes, required at 72 pieces, optional at 24 pieces minimum. Include only carrier route bundles for a 5-digit ZIP Code remaining after preparing sacks under 10.1.4a. through 10.1.4d.. May contain only carrier route bundles for any 5-digit ZIP Code that is not part of a scheme listed in L001 and that has a “B” or “D” indicator in the City State Product. Labeling:

g. 5-digit, required at 72 pieces, optional at 24-piece minimum, except as provided in 10.1.1g. for firm bundles. May contain only barcoded price 5-digit bundles and nonbarcoded price 5-digit bundles for the same 5-digit ZIP Code for any 5-digit ZIP Code that has a “B” or “D” indicator in the City State Product. Labeling:

h. Merged 3-digit. Required for carrier route, 5-digit, and 5-digit scheme bundles remaining after preparing sacks under 10.1.4a. through 10.1.4g., and any 3-digit and 3-digit scheme bundles with a minimum of 24 pieces for a 3-digit area. As an option to preparing bundles in merged 3-digit sacks, mailers may place those bundles in flats trays (see 207.20.0). Labeling:

i. SCF through mixed ADC. Any 5-digit scheme and 5-digit bundles remaining after preparing sacks under 10.1.4a. through 10.1.4h. and all 3-digit, 3-digit scheme, ADC, origin mixed ADC, and mixed ADC bundles must be sacked and labeled under 9.2 for cosacking of barcoded price and nonbarcoded price bundles, except if there are no barcoded price bundles in the mailing job, sack and label under 207.22.6, or if there are no nonbarcoded price bundles in the mailing job, sack and label under 207.25.4.

Mailers must prepare pallets of bundles in the manner and sequence listed below and under 8.0. When sortation under this option is performed, mailers must prepare all merged 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier routes, 5-digit scheme, and merged 5-digit pallets that are possible in the mailing based on the volume of mail to the destination using L001 and/or the City State Product. Mailers must label pallets according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under 8.6.

a. Merged 5-digit scheme, required and permitted only when there is at least one 5-digit ZIP Code in the scheme that has an “A” or “C” indicator in the City State Product. May contain carrier route bundles for any 5-digit ZIP Code(s) in a single scheme listed in L001 as well as machinable barcoded price 5-digit bundles and machinable nonbarcoded price 5-digit bundles for those 5-digit ZIP Codes in the scheme that have an “A” or “C” indicator in the City State Product. For schemes in which all of the 5-digit ZIP Codes have a “B” or “D” indicator in the City State Product, begin preparing pallets under 10.1.5c (5-digit scheme carrier routes pallet). For 5-digit ZIP Codes not included in a scheme, begin preparing pallets under 10.1.5c (merged 5-digit pallet). Labeling:

b. 5-digit scheme carrier routes, required. May contain only carrier route bundles for carrier routes in an L001 scheme for which all of the 5-digit ZIP Codes in the scheme have a “B” or “D” indicator in the City State Product. Labeling:

c. Merged 5-digit, required. May contain carrier route bundles, machinable barcoded price 5-digit bundles, and machinable nonbarcoded price 5-digit for those 5-digit ZIP Codes that are not part of a scheme and that have an “A” or “C” indicator in the City State Product. Labeling:

d. 5-digit carrier routes, required. May contain only carrier route price bundles for the same 5-digit ZIP Code for those 5-digit ZIP Codes that are not part of a scheme and that have a “B” or “D” indicator in the City State Product. Labeling:

e. 5-digit, required. May contain only machinable barcoded price 5-digit bundles and machinable nonbarcoded price 5-digit bundles for the same 5-digit ZIP Code with a “B” or “D” indicator in the City State Product, or 5-digit scheme (L007) bundles. Five-digit scheme bundles are assigned to 5-digit pallets according to the “label to” 5-digit ZIP Code in L007. Labeling:

e. Carrier route bundles may be cosacked or copalletized with automation price 5-digit bundles, Presorted price 5-digit bundles, and cobundled 5-digit bundles only for those 5-digit ZIP Codes that have an “A” or “C” indicator in the Carrier Route Indicators field in the City State Product indicating eligibility for such cosacking or copalletization. Containers of mail sorted in this manner are called “merged 5-digit” sacks or pallets. Containers of mail sorted in this manner for which scheme (L001) sortation is also performed are called “merged 5-digit scheme” sacks or pallets. Pieces in 5-digit scheme (L007) bundles may not be placed in merged 5-digit containers.

l. In addition to the applicable postage statement, documentation produced by PAVE-certified software must be submitted with each cosacked or copalletized mailing job that describes for each sack sortation level and sack, or each pallet sortation level and pallet, the number of pieces qualifying for each applicable carrier route price, each applicable automation price, and each applicable Presorted price.

a. Sacked mailings. The carrier route mailing must be bundled and labeled under 245.6.0. Except when prepared under the cobundling option in 11.0, the automation price mailing must be bundled and labeled under 245.7.0 and the Presorted price mailing must be bundled and labeled under 245.5.0.

Mailers must prepare sacks in the following manner and sequence. All carrier route bundles must be placed in sacks under 10.2.4a through 10.2.4e as described below. Mailers must prepare all merged 5-digit scheme sacks, 5-digit scheme carrier routes sacks, and merged 5-digit sacks that are possible in the mailing based on the volume of mail to the destination using L001 and the Carrier Route Indicators field in the City State Product. Mailers must label sacks according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under 245.4.0.

a. Carrier route, required, may contain only carrier route bundles. Must be prepared when there are 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces for the same carrier route. Smaller volume not permitted. Labeling:

b. Merged 5-digit scheme, required and permitted only when there is at least one 5-digit ZIP Code in the scheme with an “A” or “C” indicator in the City State Product. May contain carrier route bundles for any 5-digit ZIP Code(s) in a single scheme listed in L001 as well as automation price 5-digit bundles and Presorted price 5-digit bundles for those 5-digit ZIP Codes in the scheme with an “A” or “C” indicator in the City State Product. When preparation of this sack level is permitted, a sack must be prepared if there are any carrier route bundle(s) for the scheme. If there is not at least one carrier route bundle for any 5-digit destination in the scheme, preparation of this sack is required when there are at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces in 5-digit bundles for any of the 5-digit ZIP Codes in the scheme that have an “A” or “C” indicator in the City State Product (smaller volume not permitted). For a 5-digit ZIP Code(s) in a scheme with a “B” or “D” indicator in the City State Product, prepare sack(s) for the automation price and Presorted price bundles under 10.2.4g and 10.2.4h. For 5-digit ZIP Codes not included in a scheme, prepare sacks under 10.2.4d through 10.2.4h. Labeling:

c. 5-digit scheme carrier routes, required, may contain only carrier route bundles for 5-digit ZIP Code(s) in a single scheme listed in L001 when all the 5-digit ZIP Codes in the scheme have a “B” or “D” indicator in the City State Product. Must be prepared if there are any carrier route bundle(s) for such a scheme. Labeling:

d. Merged 5-digit, required. Must be prepared only for those 5-digit ZIP Codes that are not part of a scheme and that have an “A” or “C” indicator in the City State Product. May contain carrier route bundles, automation price 5-digit bundles, and Presorted price 5-digit bundles. Must be prepared if there are any carrier route bundles for the 5-digit destination. If there is not at least one carrier route bundle for the 5-digit destination, must be prepared when there are at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces in 5-digit bundles for the same 5-digit destination (smaller volume not permitted). Labeling:

e. 5-digit carrier routes, required. Sack only carrier route bundles for a 5-digit ZIP Code remaining after preparing sacks under 10.2.4a through 10.2.4d to this level. May contain only carrier route bundles for any 5-digit ZIP Code that is not part of a scheme listed in L001 and that has a “B” or “D” indicator in the City State Product. No sack minimum. Labeling:

f. 5-digit scheme, required. May contain automation price, Presorted price, and cobundled automation and Presorted price 5-digit scheme bundles for the same 5-digit scheme destination. Must be prepared when there are at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces for the 5-digit scheme destination. Smaller volume not permitted. Labeling:

g. 5-digit, required, may contain only automation price 5-digit bundles and Presorted price 5-digit bundles for a 5-digit ZIP Code that has a “B” or “D” indicator in the City State Product. Must be prepared when there are at least 125 pieces or 15 pounds of pieces for the 5-digit ZIP Code. Smaller volume not permitted. Labeling:

h. 3-digit through mixed ADC sacks. Any 5-digit scheme and 5-digit bundles remaining after preparing sacks under 10.2.4a through 10.2.4g, and all 3-digit, ADC, and Mixed ADC bundles, must be sacked and labeled according to the applicable requirements under 9.3 for cosacking of automation price and Presorted price bundles, except if there are no automation price bundles in the mailing job, sack and label under 245.5.0, or, if there are no Presorted price bundles in the mailing job, sack and label under 245.7.4.

a. Merged 5-digit scheme, required and permitted only when there is at least one 5-digit ZIP Code in the scheme that has an “A” or “C” indicator in the City State Product. May contain carrier route bundles for any 5-digit ZIP Code(s) in a single scheme listed in L001 as well as automation price 5-digit bundles and Presorted price 5-digit bundles for those 5-digit ZIP Codes in the scheme that have an “A” or “C” indicator in the City State Product. For schemes in which all of the 5-digit ZIP Codes have a “B” or “D” indicator in the City State Product, begin preparing pallets under 10.2.5b (5-digit scheme carrier routes pallet). For 5-digit ZIP Codes not included in a scheme, begin preparing pallets under 10.2.5c (merged 5-digit pallet). Labeling:

b. 5-digit scheme carrier routes, required, may contain only carrier route bundles for carrier routes in an L001 scheme for which all of the 5-digit ZIP Codes in the scheme have a “B” or “D” indicator in the City State Product. Labeling:

c. Merged 5-digit, required, may contain carrier route price bundles, automation price 5-digit bundles, and Presorted price 5-digit bundles for those 5-digit ZIP Codes that are not part of a scheme and that have an “A” or “C” indicator in the City State Product. Labeling:

d. 5-digit carrier routes, required, may contain only carrier route price bundles for the same 5-digit ZIP Code for those 5-digit ZIP Codes that are not part of a scheme and that have a “B” or “D” indicator in the City State Product. Labeling:

e. 5-digit, required, may contain only automation price 5-digit bundles and Presorted price 5-digit bundles for the same 5-digit ZIP Code with a “B” or “D” indicator in the City State Product, or 5-digit scheme (L007) bundles (automation price and cobundled automation and Presorted price pieces only). Five-digit scheme bundles are assigned to 5-digit pallets according to the “label to” 5-digit ZIP Code in L007. Labeling:

h. ASF, required, except that an ASF sort may not be required if using bundle reallocation under 8.13.3. May contain carrier route price, automation price, and/or Presorted price bundles. Sort ADC bundles to ASF pallets based on the “label to” ZIP Code for the ADC destination of the bundle in L004. At the mailer’s option, sort appropriate mixed ADC bundles to ASF pallets based on the “label to” ZIP Code for the ADC destination of the bundle in L010. All optional mixed ADC bundles on ASF pallets must contain only pieces destinating within the ASF as shown in 6.3. See 246.3.0 for additional requirements for DNDC price eligibility. Labeling:

i. NDC, required, may contain carrier route price, automation price, and/or Presorted price bundles. Sort ADC bundles to NDC pallets based on the “label to” ZIP Code for the ADC destination of the bundle in L004. At the mailer’s option, sort appropriate mixed ADC bundles to NDC pallets based on the “label to” ZIP Code for the ADC destination of the bundle in L010. All optional mixed ADC bundles on NDC pallets must contain only pieces destinating within the NDC as shown in 6.3. See 246.3.0 for additional requirements for DNDC price eligibility. Labeling:

Mailers may choose to cobundle (see 207.18.4z.) barcoded price and nonbarcoded price flat-size pieces as an option to the basic bundling requirements in 207.22.0 and 207.25.0. 5-digit scheme and 3-digit scheme bundles also must meet the additional standards in 207.18.4i. and 207.18.4q.. Mailing jobs (for flats meeting the criteria in 201.3.0) prepared using the 5-digit scheme and/or the 3-digit scheme bundle preparation must be sacked under 9.0 or 10.0 or palletized under 10.0, 12.0, or 13.0. All bundles are subject to the following conditions:

Pieces meeting the criteria in 201.3.0 must be prepared in 5-digit scheme bundles for those 5-digit ZIP Codes identified in L007 and in 3-digit scheme bundles for those 3-digit ZIP Codes identified in L008. Preparation sequence, bundle size, and labeling:

Mailers may choose to cobundle (see 245.1.4t.) automation price and nonautomation price flat-size pieces as an option to the basic bundling requirements in 245.5.0 and 245.7.0. All pieces in the same bundle must meet the standards in 201.3.0. 5-digit scheme and 3-digit scheme bundles must meet the additional standards in 245.1.4f. and 245.1.4m.. Mailing jobs prepared using the 5-digit scheme and/or 3-digit scheme bundle preparation (for flats meeting the criteria in 201.3.0) must be sacked under 10.0 or palletized under 10.0, 12.0, or 13.0. All bundles are subject to the following conditions:

d. A minimum of 200 pieces or 50 pounds of automation price pieces are required; the nonautomation price mailing may meet the residual volume requirements in 243.3.6. The total number of automation price and nonautomation price pieces must be used to meet the minimum volume requirements for bundles and containers.

Pieces meeting the criteria in 201.3.0 must be prepared in 5-digit scheme bundles for those 5-digit ZIP Codes identified in L007 and in 3-digit scheme bundles for those 3-digit ZIP Codes identified in L008. Preparation sequence, bundle size, and labeling:

d. A separate minimum of 300 nonautomation price pieces qualifying for and claiming the barcode discount and a separate minimum of 300 nonautomation price pieces are required. The combined total number of pieces qualifying for and claiming the barcode discount and the nonautomation price must be used to meet the minimum volume requirements for bundles and sacks.

f. Unless presented using an approved manifest mailing system under 2.0, nonautomation price pieces qualifying for and claiming the barcode discount and nonautomation price pieces for each presort destination must be sorted so that only one physical bundle for each logical presort destination includes both nonautomation price pieces qualifying for the barcode discount (containing a ZIP+4 or delivery point barcode) and nonautomation price pieces (containing a 5-digit barcode).

Five-digit scheme bundles (under L007) and 3-digit scheme bundles (under L008) must be prepared according to standards in 12.1.5. However, neither 5-digit scheme bundles nor 3-digit scheme bundles may be copalletized on any merged pallets. Five-digit bundles from a barcoded price mailing and 5-digit bundles from a nonbarcoded price mailing (including pieces cobundled under 11.0) may be placed on the same pallet as carrier route bundles under the following conditions:

f. A complete, signed postage statement, using the correct USPS form or an approved facsimile, must accompany each mailing job. In addition, documentation prepared by PAVE-certified software must be submitted with each mailing job. Documentation, under 708.1.0, must describe for each “logical” pallet sortation level and each physical pallet the number of addressed pieces qualifying for each carrier route price, each Presorted price, and each automation price. Within the body of the documentation beneath the listing for the last physical pallet for each logical pallet presort destination, a separate 5% threshold summary also must be provided for each merged 5-digit scheme and each merged 5-digit logical pallet destination. Note: The separate 5% threshold summary must be for the mail on all of the physical pallets (i.e., the “logical” pallet) for that presort destination. This summary must describe for each 5-digit ZIP Code:

c. The 5% threshold is calculated separately for each 5-digit ZIP Code. For example, if a scheme contains four different 5-digit ZIP Codes, a separate 5% threshold applies to each 5-digit ZIP Code for the scheme on a merged 5-digit scheme pallet. Since 5-digit scheme bundles may not be placed on merged pallets, pieces in 5-digit scheme bundles do not count as 5-digit sorted pieces for purposes of determining the 5% limit.

d. When firm bundles, other than those claimed at carrier route prices, are placed on a merged 5-digit scheme or a merged 5-digit pallet, addressed pieces in all corresponding 5-digit bundles up to 5% also must be merged. If the number of addressed pieces placed in 5-digit bundles (for an individual 5-digit ZIP Code) exceeds the 5% threshold, the mailer may place a portion of the addressed pieces (up to 5%) on a merged 5-digit scheme or a merged 5-digit pallet. Mailers are encouraged, but not required, to include such pieces on a merged pallet in this sequence: nonbarcoded price bundles, followed by barcoded price bundles.

Mailers must prepare pallets of bundles in the manner and sequence listed below and under 8.0. Mailers must prepare all merged 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier routes, 5-digit scheme, and merged 5-digit pallets that are possible in the mailing based on the volume of mail to the destination using L001 and the 5% threshold, as applicable. Mailers must label pallets according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under 8.6. If, due to the physical size of the mailpieces, the barcoded price pieces are considered flat-size under 201.3.0 and the carrier route sorted pieces and nonbarcoded price pieces are considered irregular parcels under 401.1.6, “FLTS” must be shown as the processing category on the pallet label. If a mailing contains no barcoded price pieces and the carrier route pieces and the nonbarcoded pieces are irregular parcels, use “IRREG” for the processing category on the contents line of the pallet label. Prepare and label pallets as follows:

a. Merged 5-digit scheme, required; permitted only when 5-digit bundles for at least one 5-digit ZIP Code in the scheme may be merged with carrier route bundles under the 5% threshold standard in 12.1.4. May contain carrier route bundles for any 5-digit ZIP Code in a single scheme listed in L001. May also contain barcoded price 5-digit bundles and nonbarcoded price 5-digit bundles up to a maximum of 5% of the total number of pieces for each 5-digit ZIP Code in the scheme under 12.1.4. For 5-digit ZIP Codes not included in a scheme, begin preparing pallets under 12.1.5d (merged 5-digit pallet). Labeling:

b. 5-digit scheme carrier routes, required; may contain only carrier route bundles for all carrier routes in an L001 scheme when a merged 5-digit scheme pallet could not be prepared under 12.1.5a. Labeling:

c. 5-digit scheme, not permitted for flats that meet the dimension, weight, and flexibility criteria for automation flats in 201.3.0 (including pieces in merged bundles) and not permitted for sacks or trays. Required for all other flats and irregular parcels. Five-digit scheme bundles are assigned to 5-digit pallets according to the “label to” 5-digit ZIP Code in L007. Labeling:

d. Merged 5-digit, required; permitted only when 5-digit bundles may be merged with carrier route bundles under the 5% threshold standard in 12.1.4 for a 5-digit ZIP Code that is not part of an L001 scheme. May contain carrier route bundles, barcoded price 5-digit bundles, and nonbarcoded price 5-digit bundles. The number of pieces in 5-digit bundles is limited to 5% of the total number of pieces placed on the pallet under 12.1.4. Labeling:

e. 5-digit carrier routes, required; may contain only carrier route price bundles for the same 5-digit ZIP Code that is not part of a scheme for which a merged 5-digit pallet could not be prepared under 12.1.5d. Labeling:

Five-digit scheme bundles (under L007) and 3-digit scheme bundles (under L008) must be prepared. Five-digit scheme bundles may not be copalletized on any merged pallets. Five-digit bundles from an automation price mailing and 5-digit bundles from a Presorted price mailing (including pieces cobundled under 11.0) may be placed on the same pallet as carrier route bundles under the following conditions:

d. Automation price 5-digit bundles, Presorted price 5-digit bundles, and cobundled 5-digit bundles may be copalletized with carrier route bundles only when the pieces in the 5-digit bundles do not exceed the 5% limit described in 12.1.8. Pallets of mail sorted in this manner are called “merged 5-digit” pallets. Pallets of mail sorted in this manner for which scheme sortation is also performed are called “merged 5-digit scheme” pallets. Since 5-digit scheme bundles cannot be placed on merged pallets, pieces in 5-digit scheme bundles do not count as 5-digit sorted pieces for purposes of determining the 5% limit.

k. In addition to the postage statement(s), documentation prepared by PAVE-certified software must be submitted with each copalletized mailing job that describes for each pallet sortation level and pallet the number of pieces qualifying for each applicable carrier route price, each applicable automation price, and each applicable Presorted price under 708.1.0. A separate 5% threshold summary also must be provided under 708.1.0 for each “logical” merged 5-digit scheme or “logical” merged 5-digit pallet presort destination. This 5% threshold summary must show for each 5-digit ZIP Code on the logical merged 5-digit scheme or logical merged 5-digit pallet: the total number of pieces on the pallet for the 5-digit ZIP Code; the total number of pieces sorted in carrier route bundles for the 5-digit ZIP Code; the total number of pieces sorted in 5-digit bundles for the 5-digit ZIP Code, and; of the total number of pieces for the 5-digit ZIP Code, the percentage of pieces sorted in 5-digit bundles for that 5-digit ZIP Code. This additional 5% threshold summary must appear within the body of the documentation beneath the pallet price listing for the last physical pallet for the logical pallet presort destination. Note: If there are two or more physical pallets for the same presort destination, for example, the same merged 5-digit pallet destination, these two or more physical pallets would be considered as one “logical pallet.” The separate pallet summary must be for the mail on all of the physical pallets (the “logical pallet”) for that presort destination.

a. The number of pieces prepared in 5-digit bundles for any single 5-digit ZIP Code on a logical merged 5-digit or merged 5-digit scheme pallet does not exceed 5% of the total number of pieces for the 5-digit ZIP Code on the pallet(s) for the presort destination. That is, the total number of pieces for a 5-digit ZIP Code in 5-digit and carrier route bundles must not be greater than the number of pieces in carrier route bundles divided by 0.95.

b. The 5% threshold is calculated separately for each 5-digit ZIP Code. For example, if a scheme contains four different 5-digit ZIP Codes, a separate 5% threshold applies to each 5-digit ZIP Code for the scheme on a merged 5-digit scheme pallet. Since 5-digit scheme bundles may not be placed on merged pallets, pieces in 5-digit scheme bundles do not count as 5-digit sorted pieces for purposes of determining the 5% limit.

c. Except when bundles are prepared under the cobundling option in 11.0, all the mail in a logical 5-digit bundle must be able to be placed on the logical pallet under the 5% rule. A logical 5-digit bundle is all pieces for a mailing (price level) prepared in a 5-digit bundle or bundles for the same 5-digit destination. For each 5-digit ZIP Code, it is possible to have a logical 5-digit bundle of automation price mail and a logical 5-digit bundle of Presorted price mail. If the total number of pieces in a logical 5-digit bundle exceeds the 5% limit, none of the pieces for that 5-digit bundle level may be placed on a merged 5-digit or merged 5-digit scheme pallet. For some ZIP Codes, the total number of pieces prepared in logical 5-digit bundles (both an automation price 5-digit bundle and a Presorted price 5-digit bundle) may exceed 5% of the total mail for that ZIP Code, but the number of pieces for an individual automation price logical 5-digit bundle for that ZIP Code does not exceed the 5% limit nor does an individual Presorted price logical 5-digit bundle for that ZIP Code exceed the 5% limit. In such instances, mailers may choose to place all of the pieces in a logical 5-digit bundle for a single price category on the logical merged 5-digit or merged 5-digit scheme pallet so that the 5% threshold is not exceeded.

d. Except for bundles prepared under the cobundling option in 11.0, if the total number of pieces in both the logical 5-digit automation price bundle and the logical 5-digit Presorted price bundle each separately exceed 5% of the total number of pieces for the 5-digit ZIP Code, none of the pieces in 5-digit bundles may be merged with carrier route bundles on a merged 5-digit or merged 5-digit scheme pallet.

e. For mailing jobs prepared using the cobundling option in 11.0, if the total number of pieces prepared in a logical 5-digit bundle (containing automation price and Presorted price pieces) exceeds the 5% limit for a 5-digit ZIP Code in 12.1.8a, a mailer may, for each 5-digit ZIP Code, choose to place a portion of the pieces prepared in the logical 5-digit bundle on a merged 5-digit or 5-digit scheme pallet using one of the options below. Regardless of the option selected, a minimum of 10 pieces or 15 pieces as applicable must be prepared in 5-digit bundle(s) placed on the merged pallet and a minimum of 10 or 15 remaining pieces as applicable prepared in 5-digit bundle(s) not placed on the merged pallet, with the total number of pieces not exceeding the 5% limit. The options are:

a. Merged 5-digit scheme, required, permitted only when 5-digit bundles for at least one 5-digit ZIP Code in the scheme may be merged with carrier route bundles under the 5% threshold standard in 12.1.8. May contain carrier route bundles for any 5-digit ZIP Code in a single scheme listed in L001. May also contain automation price 5-digit bundles and Presorted price 5-digit bundles up to a maximum of 5% of the total number of pieces for each 5-digit ZIP Code in the scheme under 12.1.8. For 5-digit ZIP Codes not included in a scheme, begin preparing pallets under 12.1.9c (merged 5-digit pallet). Labeling:

b. 5-digit scheme carrier routes, required, may contain only carrier route bundles for all carrier routes in an L001 scheme when a merged 5-digit scheme pallet could not be prepared under 12.1.9a. Labeling:

c. Merged 5-digit, required, permitted only when 5-digit bundles may be merged with carrier route bundles under the 5% threshold standard in 12.1.8 for a 5-digit ZIP Code that is not part of an L001 scheme. May contain carrier route price bundles, automation price 5-digit bundles, and Presorted price 5-digit bundles. The number of pieces in 5-digit bundles is limited to 5% of the total number of pieces placed on the pallet under 12.1.8. Labeling:

d. 5-digit carrier routes, required, may contain only carrier route price bundles for the same 5-digit ZIP Code that is not part of a scheme and for which a merged 5-digit pallet could not be prepared under 12.1.9c. Labeling:

e. 5-digit, required, may contain only automation price 5-digit bundles and Presorted price 5-digit bundles for the same 5-digit ZIP Code that could not be placed on a merged 5-digit pallet, or 5-digit scheme (L007) bundles (automation price and cobundled automation and Presorted price pieces only). Five-digit scheme bundles are assigned to 5-digit pallets according to the “label to” 5-digit ZIP Code in L007. Labeling:

h. ASF, required, except that an ASF sort may not be required if using bundle reallocation under 8.13.3. May contain carrier route price, automation price, and/or Presorted price bundles. Sort ADC bundles to ASF pallets based on the “label to” ZIP Code for the ADC destination of the bundle in L004. At the mailer’s option, sort appropriate mixed ADC bundles to ASF pallets based on the “label to” ZIP Code for the ADC destination of the bundle in L010. All optional mixed ADC bundles on ASF pallets must contain only pieces destinating within the ASF as shown in 6.3. See 246.3.0 for additional requirements for DNDC price eligibility. Labeling:

i. NDC, required, may contain carrier route price, automation price, and/or Presorted price bundles. Sort ADC bundles to NDC pallets based on the “label to” ZIP Code for the ADC destination of the bundle in L004. At the mailer’s option, sort appropriate mixed ADC bundles to NDC pallets based on the “label to” ZIP Code for the ADC destination of the bundle in L010. All optional mixed ADC bundles on NDC pallets must contain only pieces destinating within the NDC as shown in 6.3. See 246.3.0 for additional requirements for DNDC price eligibility. Labeling:

Five-digit scheme bundles (using L007) and 3-digit scheme bundles (using L008) must be prepared according to standards in 13.1.4. Five-digit scheme bundles and 3-digit scheme bundles may not be copalletized on any merged pallets. Five-digit bundles from a barcoded price mailing and 5-digit bundles from a nonbarcoded price mailing (including pieces cobundled under 11.0) may be placed on the same pallet as carrier route bundles under the following conditions:

2. For 5-digit ZIP Codes identified with a “B” or “D” indicator in the City State Product, the number of addressed pieces placed in 5-digit bundles (other than firm bundles) must not exceed 5% of the total number of addressed pieces placed on the merged 5-digit scheme or merged 5-digit pallet, for each corresponding 5-digit ZIP Code. For merged 5-digit scheme pallets, the 5% threshold is calculated separately for each individual 5-digit ZIP Code.

g. A complete, signed postage statement, using the correct USPS form or an approved facsimile, must accompany each mailing job. In addition, documentation produced by PAVE-certified software must be submitted with each mailing job. Documentation, under 708.1.0, must describe for each “logical” pallet sortation level and each physical pallet the number of addressed pieces qualifying for each carrier route price, each nonbarcoded price, and each barcoded price. Within the body of the documentation beneath the listing for the last physical pallet for each logical pallet presort destination, a separate 5% threshold summary also must be provided for each merged 5-digit scheme and each merged 5-digit logical pallet destination that contains mail for one or more 5-digit ZIP Codes with a “B” or “D” indicator in the City State Product. Note: The separate 5% threshold summary must be for the mail on all of the physical pallets (i.e., the “logical” pallet) for that presort destination. This summary must describe for each 5-digit ZIP Code:

b. The number of pieces prepared in 5-digit bundles (other than firm bundles) for any single 5-digit ZIP Code with a “B” or “D” indicator (in the City State Product) on a logical merged 5-digit scheme or merged 5-digit pallet must not exceed 5% of the total number of addressed pieces for the 5-digit ZIP Code on the logical pallet for the presort destination. Five-digit ZIP Codes with an “A” or “C” indicator (in the City State Product) are not subject to the 5% limit.

c. The 5% threshold is calculated separately for each 5-digit ZIP Code with a “B” or “D” indicator. For example, if a scheme contains four different 5-digit ZIP Codes, a separate 5% threshold applies to each 5-digit ZIP Code with a “B” or “D” indicator for the scheme on a merged 5-digit scheme pallet. (5-digit ZIP Codes with an “A” or “C” indicator are not subject to the 5% limit.) Since 5-digit scheme bundles may not be placed on merged pallets, pieces in 5-digit scheme bundles do not count as 5-digit sorted pieces for purposes of determining the 5% limit.

d. When firm bundles, other than those claimed at carrier route prices, are placed on a merged 5-digit scheme or a merged 5-digit pallet, addressed pieces in all corresponding 5-digit bundles up to 5% also must be merged. If the number of addressed pieces placed in 5-digit bundles (for an individual 5-digit ZIP Code) exceeds the 5% threshold, the mailer may place a portion of the addressed pieces (up to 5%) on a merged 5-digit scheme or a merged 5-digit pallet. Mailers are encouraged, but not required, to include such pieces on a merged pallet in this sequence: presorted price bundles, followed by cobundles (if using 11.0), followed by automation price bundles.

Mailers must prepare pallets of bundles in the manner and sequence listed below and under 8.0. Mailers must prepare all merged 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier routes, 5-digit scheme, and merged 5-digit pallets that are possible in the mailing based on the volume of mail to the destination (8.0) using L001, the City State Product, and the 5% threshold (13.1.4), as applicable. Mailers must label pallets according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under 8.6. If, due to the physical size of the mailpieces, the barcoded price pieces are considered flat-size under 201.3.0 and the carrier route sorted pieces and nonbarcoded price pieces are considered irregular parcels under 201.1.0, “FLTS” must be shown as the processing category on the pallet label. If a mailing contains no barcoded price pieces and the carrier route pieces and the nonbarcoded ofpieces are irregular parcels, use “IRREG” for the processing category on the contents line of the pallet label. Prepare and label pallets as follows:

a. Merged 5-digit scheme, required; for schemes that contain at least one 5-digit ZIP Code that has an “A” or “C” indicator in the City State Product, the pallet contains 1) carrier route bundles for all 5-digit ZIP Codes in the scheme, 2) 5-digit barcoded price and 5-digit nonbarcoded price bundles for those 5-digit ZIP Codes in the scheme with an “A” or “C” indicator in the City State Product, and 3) 5-digit barcoded price and/or 5-digit nonbarcoded price bundles for those 5-digit ZIP Codes in the scheme with a “B” or “D” indicator when the number of pieces in the 5-digit bundle(s) does not exceed 5% of the total number of pieces for that 5-digit ZIP Code under 13.1.4. For schemes in which all 5-digit ZIP Codes have “B” or “D” indicators and for which there is at least one 5-digit ZIP Code for which 5-digit bundles may be placed on the pallet under the 5% limit in 13.1.4, place all carrier route bundles plus the 5-digit bundles within the 5% limit on the pallet. For schemes in which all 5-digit ZIP Codes have “B” or “D” indicators and for which there are no 5-digit ZIP Codes for which 5-digit bundles may be placed on the pallet under the 5% limit, do not prepare a merged 5-digit scheme pallet (sort bundles to pallets under 13.1.5b through 13.1.5h). Labeling:

b. 5-digit scheme carrier routes, required, may contain only carrier route bundles for all carrier routes in an L001 scheme for which all 5-digit ZIP Codes in the scheme have a “B” or “D” indicator and for which no 5-digit bundles could be placed on a merged 5-digit scheme pallet with the carrier route bundles because the 5-digit bundles exceeded the 5% threshold. Labeling:

c. 5-digit scheme, not permitted for flats that meet the dimension, weight, and flexibility criteria for automation flats in 201.3.0 (including pieces in merged bundles) and not permitted for sacks or trays. Required for all other flats and irregular parcels. May contain only 5-digit bundles of barcoded price and nonbarcoded price mail for the same 5-digit scheme under L001 for which one or more 5-digit ZIP Codes in the scheme had a “B” or “D” indicator in the City State Product, and the 5-digit bundles could not be placed on a merged 5-digit scheme pallet (the pieces exceeded the 5% threshold). Labeling:

d. Merged 5-digit, required, may contain carrier route bundles, barcoded price 5-digit bundles, and nonbarcoded price 5-digit bundles for those 5-digit ZIP Codes that are not part of a scheme. For 5-digit ZIP Codes with an “A” or “C” indicator in the City State Product, there is no limit on the number of pieces in 5-digit bundles that may be placed on the pallet and a merged 5-digit pallet is prepared even if there are no 5-digit bundles for that ZIP Code. For those 5-digit ZIP Codes with a “B” or “D” indicator in the City State Product, the number of pieces in 5-digit bundles is limited to 5% of the total number of pieces for the 5-digit pallet destination under 13.1.4. However, if no 5-digit bundles for ZIP Codes with “B” or “D” indicators can be placed on this level pallet under the 5% limit, do not prepare this a merged 5-digit pallet (sort bundles under 13.1.5e through 13.1.5h). Labeling:

e. 5-digit carrier routes, required, may contain only carrier route price bundles for the same 5-digit ZIP Code that is not part of a scheme and that could not be placed on a merged 5-digit pallet. Labeling:

f. 5-digit, required, may contain only barcoded price 5-digit bundles and nonbarcoded price 5-digit bundles for the same 5-digit ZIP Code that could not be placed on a merged 5-digit pallet, or 5-digit scheme (L007) bundles (barcoded price and cobundled barcoded and nonbarcoded price pieces only). Five-digit scheme bundles are assigned to 5-digit pallets according to the “label to” 5-digit ZIP Code in L007. Labeling:

Five-digit scheme bundles (under L007) and 3-digit scheme bundles (under L008) must be prepared. Five-digit scheme bundles may not be copalletized on any merged pallets. Five-digit bundles from an automation price mailing and 5-digit bundles from a Presorted price mailing (including pieces cobundled under 11.0) may be placed on the same pallet as carrier route bundles under the following conditions:

2. For 5-digit ZIP Codes with a “B” or “D” indicator in the Carrier Route Indicators field in the City State Product, the pieces in the 5-digit bundles must not exceed 5% of the total number of pieces for each individual 5-digit ZIP Code on the pallet as described in 13.2.3. Since 5-digit scheme bundles cannot be placed on merged pallets, pieces in 5-digit scheme bundles do not count as 5-digit sorted pieces for purposes of determining the 5% limit.

l. In addition to the applicable postage statement, documentation produced by PAVE-certified software must be submitted with each copalletized mailing job that describes for each pallet sortation level and pallet the number of pieces qualifying for each applicable carrier route price, each applicable automation price, and each applicable Presorted price. A separate 5% threshold summary also must be provided under 708.1.0 for each “logical” merged 5-digit scheme or “logical” merged 5-digit pallet presort destination that contains mail for one or more 5-digit ZIP Codes with a “B” or “D” indicator in the City State Product. This 5% threshold summary must show for each 5-digit ZIP Code with a “B” or “D” indicator on the logical merged 5-digit scheme or logical merged 5-digit pallet: the total number of pieces on the pallet for the 5-digit ZIP Code; the total number of pieces sorted in carrier route bundles for the 5-digit ZIP Code; the total number of pieces sorted in 5-digit bundles for the 5-digit ZIP Code, and; of the total number of pieces for the 5-digit ZIP Code, the percentage of pieces sorted in 5-digit bundles for that 5-digit ZIP Code. This additional 5% threshold summary must appear within the body of the documentation beneath the pallet price listing for the last physical pallet for the logical pallet presort destination. Note: If there are two or more physical pallets for the same presort destination, for example, the same merged 5-digit pallet destination, these two or more physical pallets would be considered as one “logical pallet.” The separate pallet summary must be for the mail on all of the physical pallets (the “logical pallet”) for that presort destination.

a. The number of pieces prepared in 5-digit bundles for any single 5-digit ZIP Code with a “B” or “D” indicator on a logical merged 5-digit or merged 5-digit scheme pallet does not exceed 5% of the total number of pieces for the 5-digit ZIP Code on the logical pallet for the presort destination. That is, the total number of pieces for a 5-digit ZIP Code in 5-digit and carrier route bundles must not be greater than the number of pieces in carrier route bundles divided by 0.95. 5-digit ZIP Codes with an “A” or “C” indicator are not subject to the 5% limit.

b. The 5% threshold is calculated separately for each 5-digit ZIP Code with a “B” or “D” indicator. For example, if a scheme contains four different 5-digit ZIP Codes, a separate 5% threshold applies to each 5-digit ZIP Code with a “B” or “D” indicator for the scheme on a merged 5-digit scheme pallet. (Five-digit ZIP Codes with an “A” or “C” indicator are not subject to the 5% limit.) Since 5-digit scheme bundles cannot be placed on merged pallets, pieces in 5-digit scheme bundles do not count as 5-digit sorted pieces for purposes of determining the 5% limit.

c. Except when bundles are prepared under the cobundling option in 11.0, all mail in a logical 5-digit bundle for a 5-digit ZIP Code with a “B” or “D” indicator must be able to be placed on the logical pallet under the 5% rule. A logical 5-digit bundle is all pieces for a mailing (price level) prepared in a 5-digit bundle or bundles for the same 5-digit destination. For each 5-digit ZIP Code, it is possible to have a logical 5-digit bundle of automation price mail and a logical 5-digit bundle of Presorted price mail. If the total number of pieces in a logical 5-digit bundle exceeds the 5% limit, none of the pieces for that 5-digit bundle level may be placed on a merged 5-digit or merged 5-digit scheme pallet. For some ZIP Codes, the total number of pieces prepared in logical 5-digit bundles (both an automation price logical 5-digit bundle and a Presorted price logical 5-digit bundle) may exceed 5% of the total mail for that ZIP Code, but the number of pieces for an individual automation price logical 5-digit bundle for that ZIP Code does not exceed the 5% limit nor does an individual Presorted price logical 5-digit bundle for that ZIP Code exceed the 5% limit. In such instances, mailers may choose to place all of the pieces in a logical 5-digit bundle for a single price category on the logical merged 5-digit or merged 5-digit scheme pallet so that the 5% threshold is not exceeded.

d. Except for bundles prepared under the cobundling option in 11.0, if the total number of pieces in both the logical 5-digit automation price bundle and the logical 5-digit Presorted price bundle each separately exceed 5% of the total number of pieces for the 5-digit ZIP Code with a “B” or “D” indicator, none of the pieces in 5-digit bundles may be merged with carrier route bundles on a merged 5-digit or merged 5-digit scheme pallet.

e. For mailing jobs prepared using the cobundling option in 11.0, if the total number of pieces prepared in a logical 5-digit bundle (containing automation price and Presorted price pieces) exceeds the 5% limit for a 5-digit ZIP Code in 13.2.3a, a mailer may, for each 5-digit ZIP Code, choose to place a portion of the pieces prepared in the logical 5-digit bundle on a merged 5-digit or 5-digit scheme pallet using one of the options below. Regardless of the option selected, a minimum of 10 pieces or 15 pieces as applicable must be prepared in 5-digit bundle(s) placed on the merged pallet and a minimum of 10 or 15 remaining pieces as applicable prepared in 5-digit bundle(s) not placed on the merged pallet, with the total number of pieces not exceeding the 5% limit. The options are:

Mailers must prepare pallets of bundles in the manner and sequence listed below and under 8.0. Mailers must prepare all merged 5-digit scheme, 5-digit scheme carrier routes, 5-digit scheme, and merged 5-digit pallets that are possible in the mailing based on the volume of mail to the destination using L001, the City State Product, and the 5% threshold. Mailers must label pallets according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under 8.6.

a. Merged 5-digit scheme, required; for schemes that contain at least one 5-digit ZIP Code that has an “A” or “C” indicator in the City State Product, the pallet contains: carrier route bundles for all 5-digit ZIP Codes in the scheme; 5-digit automation price and 5-digit Presorted price bundles for those 5-digit ZIP Codes in the scheme with an “A” or “C” indicator in the City State Product; and 5-digit automation price and/or 5-digit Presorted price bundles for those 5-digit ZIP Codes in the scheme with a “B” or “D” indicator when the number of pieces in the 5-digit bundle(s) does not exceed 5% of the total number of pieces for that 5-digit ZIP Code under 13.2.3. For schemes in which all 5-digit ZIP Codes have “B” or “D” indicators and for which there is at least one 5-digit ZIP Code for which 5-digit bundles may be placed on the pallet under the 5% limit in 13.2.3, place all carrier route bundles plus the 5-digit bundles within the 5% limit on the pallet. For schemes in which all 5-digit ZIP Codes have “B” or “D” indicators and for which there are no 5-digit ZIP Codes for which 5-digit bundles may be placed on the pallet under the 5% limit, do not prepare a merged 5-digit scheme pallet (sort bundles to pallets under 13.2.4b through 13.2.4i). Labeling:

b. 5-digit scheme carrier routes, required, may contain only carrier route bundles for all carrier routes in an L001 scheme for which all 5-digit ZIP Codes in the scheme have a “B” or “D” indicator and for which no 5-digit bundles could be placed on a merged 5-digit scheme pallet with the carrier route bundles because the 5-digit bundles exceeded the 5% threshold. Labeling:

c. Merged 5-digit, required, may contain carrier route bundles, automation price 5-digit bundles, and Presorted price 5-digit bundles for those 5-digit ZIP Codes that are not part of a scheme. For 5-digit ZIP Codes with an “A” or “C” indicator in the City State Product, there is no limit on the number of pieces in 5-digit bundles that may be placed on the pallet, and a merged 5-digit pallet is prepared even if there are no 5-digit bundles for that ZIP Code. For those 5-digit ZIP Codes with a “B” or “D” indicator in the City State Product, the number of pieces in 5-digit bundles is limited to 5% of the total number of pieces for the 5-digit pallet destination under 13.2.3. However, if no 5-digit bundles for ZIP Codes with “B” or “D” indicators can be placed on this level pallet under the 5% limit, do not prepare a merged 5-digit pallet (sort bundles to pallets under 13.2.4d through 13.2.4i). Labeling:

d. 5-digit carrier routes, required, may contain only carrier route price bundles for the same 5-digit ZIP Code that is not part of a scheme and that could not be placed on a merged 5-digit pallet. Labeling:

e. 5-digit, required, may contain only automation price 5-digit bundles and Presorted price 5-digit bundles for the same 5-digit ZIP Code that could not be placed on a merged 5-digit pallet, or 5-digit scheme (L007) bundles (automation price and cobundled automation and Presorted price pieces only). Five-digit scheme bundles are assigned to 5-digit pallets according to the “label to” 5-digit ZIP Code in L007. Labeling:

h. ASF, required, except that an ASF sort may not be required if using bundle reallocation under 8.13.3. May contain carrier route price, automation price, and/or Presorted price bundles. Sort ADC bundles to ASF pallets based on the “label to” ZIP Code for the ADC destination of the bundle in L004. At the mailer’s option, sort appropriate mixed ADC bundles to ASF pallets based on the “label to” ZIP Code for the ADC destination of the bundle in L010. All optional mixed ADC bundles on ASF pallets must contain only pieces destinating within the ASF as shown in 6.3. See 246.3.0 for additional requirements for DNDC price eligibility. Labeling:

i. NDC, required, may contain carrier route price, automation price, and/or Presorted price bundles. Sort ADC bundles to NDC pallets based on the “label to” ZIP Code for the ADC destination of the bundle in L004. At the mailer’s option, sort appropriate mixed ADC bundles to NDC pallets based on the “label to” ZIP Code for the ADC destination of the bundle in L010. All optional mixed ADC bundles on NDC pallets must contain only pieces destinating within the NDC as shown in 6.3. See 263.3.0 for additional requirements for DNDC price eligibility. Labeling:

[5-31-15] All presorted and basic carrier route Standard Mail, presorted and carrier route Bound Printed Matter (BPM), and Periodicals flats meeting the standards in 201 must be sorted to FSS schemes, properly bundled and placed on or in pallets, trays, sacks, or approved alternate containers, for FSS scheme ZIP Code combinations within the same facility. Mailings that include 10 or more pieces of Standard Mail flats, 6 or more pieces of Periodicals flats, or 10 or more pieces (or 10 or more pounds) of BPM flats to an FSS scheme must be prepared in FSS scheme bundles. The Postal Service also recommends the use of authorized flat trays in lieu of sacks for FSS bundles. FSS scheme bundles that are not required to be placed in a FSS scheme or FSS facility container are combined with bundles of non-FSS sorted bundles and placed on an applicable SCF, 3-digit or NDC container. Mailers must prepare FSS scheme qualifying mailpieces for each individual FSS scheme combination, and then prepare bundles of uniform size from those pieces. Mailings (excluding saturation mailings of Standard Mail or Periodicals flats) with nonpresorted BPM flats may be included in FSS preparation, but will not be eligible for presorted, FSS scheme, FSS scheme container, FSS facility container or carrier route prices. Mailpieces and bundles must also be prepared as follows:

c. All FSS scheme bundles must be prepared in bundles with a 3-inch minimum and a 6.5-inch maximum height. “Leveling” (adjusting bundle heights within an FSS Scheme to avoid overflow bundles) of the bundles within each scheme is encouraged. Bundles must be placed on or in sacks, trays, pallets or alternate authorized container to form layers of consistent thickness; bundles of uneven thickness must be counter-stacked on pallets or approved alternate container in accordance with 8.5.8. Except for one overflow bundle that may be under the minimum size, all bundles within each FSS scheme must be of uniform size.

[5-31-15] All Periodicals flats meeting the standards in 201 (nonmachinable flats up to 3/4 inch thick may be included if they meet the standards in 705.14.0) and destinating to FSS sites as shown in L006 must be prepared according to these standards. Mailings of In-County Periodicals flats and the associated Outside-County Periodicals flats mailings of 5,000 pieces or less may be prepared according to these standards. Periodicals are subject to the following:

a. Pricing eligibility is based on 207.11.0 through 207.14.0. All Periodicals flats prepared under these standards will be assessed the FSS scheme price. FSS bundles placed on FSS scheme or FSS facility pallets, sacks, trays, or approved alternate container will claim the FSS scheme bundle price.

[5-31-15] [1-25-15] Periodicals flats pieces prepared in 5-digit FSS scheme bundles must be placed on pallets in accordance with these standards. Residual bundles may be included with non-FSS bundles and placed directly on 3-digit, SCF, or ADC pallets in accordance with 8.10.2, or placed in sacks or approved alternate containers. Preparation sequence and labeling is as follows:

a. FSS scheme, required (optional under 250 pounds), no minimum, permitted only for FSS bundles prepared for a single FSS scheme, as shown in L006. Labeling:

[5-31-15] Properly prepared flat-size mailpieces in FSS scheme bundles may be placed in sacks or approved alternate containers when 250 pounds are not available to a presort destination (including DFSS sites). 5-digit FSS scheme bundles may also be placed, or combined with non-FSS bundles and placed in 3-digit, SCF, ADC, or mixed ADC sacks or alternate containers. Preparation and labeling:

a. FSS scheme, required at 72 pieces, optional at 24 pieces (fewer pieces not permitted), permitted only for FSS scheme bundles prepared for a single FSS scheme, as shown in L006; labeling:

b. FSS facility, optional with a minimum of 24 pieces (fewer pieces not permitted), permitted only for FSS bundles prepared for the FSS sort plans processed within the same facility, as shown in L006; labeling:

[5-31-15] All flat-size Standard Mail mailpieces may be combined in 5-digit FSS scheme bundles and placed on pallets, or in sacks or approved alternate containers, for delivery to ZIP Codes having Flats Sequencing System (FSS) processing capability, as shown in L006. Standard Mail flats are subject to the following:

[5-31-15] [1-25-15] Standard Mail flats prepared in 5-digit FSS scheme bundles must be placed on pallets in accordance with these standards. Residual bundles may be included with non-FSS bundles and placed directly on 3-digit, SCF, ASF, or NDC pallets in accordance with 8.10.2; or placed in sacks or approved alternate containers. Preparation sequence and labeling:

a. FSS scheme, required (optional under 250 pounds), no minimum, permitted only for FSS scheme bundles prepared for a single FSS scheme, as shown in L006. Labeling:

[5-31-15] Properly prepared flat-size mailpieces in FSS scheme bundles may be placed in sacks or approved alternate containers when 250 pounds are not available to a FSS scheme, L006. 5-digit FSS scheme bundles may be placed, or combined with non-FSS bundles and placed, in 3-digit, SCF, ADC, or mixed ADC sacks or alternate containers. Preparation and labeling:

a. FSS scheme, required at 125 pieces or 15 pounds, permitted only for FSS scheme bundles prepared for a single FSS scheme, as shown in L006; labeling: FSS scheme, required, permitted only for 5-digit FSS scheme bundles prepared for a single FSS scheme, as shown in L006; labeling:

[5-31-15] [4-26-15] Bound Printed Matter (BPM) flats eligible for, and paid at FSS Scheme prices and that meet the standards in 201, must be prepared in FSS scheme bundles and placed on pallets, or in flat trays, sacks, or approved alternate containers, for delivery to ZIP Codes having FSS processing capability, as shown in L006. BPM flats are subject to the following:

[5-31-15] [1-25-15] Bound Printed Matter flats prepared in 5-digit FSS scheme bundles must be placed on pallets in accordance with these standards. Residual bundles may be included with non-FSS bundles and placed directly on 3-digit, SCF, ASF, or NDC pallets in accordance with 8.10.2; or placed in sacks or approved alternate containers. Preparation sequence and labeling:

a. FSS scheme, required (optional under 250 pounds), no minimum, permitted only for FSS bundles prepared for a single FSS scheme, as shown in L006. Labeling:

[5-31-15] Properly prepared flat-size mailpieces in FSS scheme bundles may be placed in trays, sacks, or approved alternate containers when 250 pounds are not available an scheme. FSS scheme bundles may be placed in mixed NDC sacks or alternate containers, or combined with non-FSS bundles and placed in 3-digit, SCF, ADC, and mixed ADC sacks or alternate containers. Preparation and labeling:

a. FSS scheme, required at 20 pieces, permitted only for FSS scheme bundles prepared for a single FSS scheme, as shown in L006; labeling:

A mailer must submit a written request to the manager, Business Mailer Support (see 608.8.1 for address) to combine mailings of Standard Mail flats and Periodicals flats. The request must show the mailer’s name and address, the mailing office, evidence of authorization to mail using a special postage payment system under 2.0 through 4.0, procedures for combining the mailing, the expected date of first mailing, quality control procedures, and a sample of all supporting mailing documentation, including postage statements and the USPS Qualification Report. Business Mailer Support will review the documentation and provide written authorization. A mailer may terminate an authorization at any time by written notice to the postmaster of the office serving the mailer’s location. Business Mailer Support may terminate an authorization by written notice if the mailer does not meet the standards.

Mailers must prepare pallets according to the standards in 8.0 and in the sequence listed below. Merged 5-digit scheme through NDC pallets must contain at least 250 pounds of combined Standard Mail and Periodicals mailpieces, except as allowed under 8.5.3. Pallets must be labeled according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under 8.6. Pallet placards must be white and measure at least 8 inches by 11 inches, unless prepared under 708.6.4.6. Prepare pallets according to the preparation, sequence and labeling instructions in 15.4.1.

Mailers must prepare pallets according to the standards in 8.0 and in the sequence listed below. Merged 5-digit scheme through NDC pallets must contain at least 250 pounds of combined Standard Mail and Periodicals, except as allowed under 8.5.3. When reallocating bundles under 8.11 or 8.12, mailers do not have to achieve the finest pallet presort level possible. Pallets must be labeled according to the Line 1 and Line 2 information listed below and under 8.6. Pallet placards must be white and measure at least 8 inches by 11 inches, unless prepared under 708.6.4.6. Prepare pallets according to the preparation, sequence and labeling instructions in 15.4.1.

e. 5-digit, required. Pallet must contain only mail for the same 5-digit ZIP Code or same 5-digit scheme under L007 (for automation flats only under 201.3.0). 5-digit scheme bundles are assigned to 5-digit pallets according to the OEL “label to” 5-digit ZIP Code. Labeling:

f. 3-digit, optional, but not available for bundles for 3-digit ZIP Code prefixes marked “N” in L002. Pallet may contain mail for the same 3-digit ZIP Code or the same 3-digit scheme under L008 (for automation-compatible flats only under 201.3.0). Three-digit scheme bundles are assigned to pallets according to the OEL “label to” 3-digit ZIP Code in L008. Labeling:

i. NDC, required. Pallet may contain carrier route or automation mail for the 3-digit ZIP Code groups in L601. ADC bundles are assigned to pallets according to the “label to” ZIP Code in L004 as appropriate. Labeling:

j. Mixed NDC, required, no minimum. Pallet may contain carrier route or automation mail. Pallet includes MXD ADC bundles, prepared according to the “label to” ZIP in L009, as appropriate. Unless authorized by the processing and distribution manager, pallet must be entered at the NDC serving the 3-digit ZIP Code of the entry Post Office. Labeling:

Only an authorized plant load mailer may prepare and transport expedited plant load shipments. Authorization is by written request to the postal official who authorized the plant load. The request must state, for each destination to which mail is to be transported, the material to be deposited as an expedited plant load shipment (e.g., the class, characteristics, and quantity), the frequency of mailing, and whether the request is for one or for a series of mailings. The mailer must meet all conditions in the authorization, if approved.

The postage statement may be submitted before or at the time a shipment is presented to the origin Post Office DMU or BMEU. The date shown by the mailer and the Post Office round stamp date on the postage statement and Form 8125 represents the date the origin Post Office DMU or BMEU verified the shipment and cleared it for dispatch by the mailer to the destination USPS facility. It does not necessarily represent the date the USPS accepts the PVDS at the USPS destination facility as mail.

Before PVDS verification can be performed at the mailer's plant, the mailer must have either a USPS plant load authorization for that plant or a special postage payment authorization (or agreement) with the USPS that establishes a detached mail unit (DMU) at that plant. The DMU must be separate from the mailer’s activities, in an enclosed, secure, and safe work area with a telephone. The work area must be approved by the USPS. The mailer may submit a letter to the postmaster serving the plant and request PVDS verification at the plant. The postmaster may agree to the mailer’s request to verify PVDS shipments at the plant on an as-needed basis, if an approved DMU is established and staffing can be accommodated.

Periodicals postage must be paid at the Post Office verifying the copies or as designated by the district. Postage is calculated from the destination USPS facility where the mail is deposited and accepted (or from the facility where the Priority Mail Express or Priority Mail Open and Distribute destinates). The publisher must ensure that sufficient funds are on deposit to pay for all mailings before their release. A publisher authorized under an alternative postage payment system must pay postage under the corresponding standards.

The mailer must pay any applicable permit fees, mailing fees, and postage for Standard Mail, Parcel Select, and Package Services PVDS at either the Post Office serving the mailer’s plant or the Post Office that does BMEU verification as designated by the district. If permit imprints are used to pay postage, the mailer must ensure that sufficient funds are on deposit to pay for all shipments before their release. For Nonprofit Standard Mail prices, a valid authorization must be on file at the Post Office where postage is paid. No permit, fees, or authorizations are required at the destination USPS facility where PVDS mailings are deposited.

At the time mail is presented for verification, the mailer must submit an appropriate Form 3602 representing all the pieces from the mailing job and Form 3602-C (or postage statement register) for all PVDS verified at the mailer’s DMU or the Post Office BMEU. The mailer must enter the required information on Form 3602-C for each PVDS to be deposited at each destination USPS facility, in lieu of providing a separate Form 3602 for each PVDS.

Form 8125 is used to report a single PVDS that the mailer will transport from origin to a destination USPS facility. Computer-generated Form 8125-C (format available at www.usps.com) provides for reporting multiple PVDS mailings that are prepared by an individual mailer and that are cleared at origin on the same day for entry at a single destination USPS facility on the same vehicle (see 17.2.11). The mailer must submit a completed Form 8125 (signed and dated by the DMU or BMEU) for each PVDS to the destination USPS facility. The form must be submitted in duplicate, or in triplicate if the mailer desires a signed and dated copy returned to its representative when depositing the mail at the destination USPS facility. Form 8125 is not required for PVDS sent via Priority Mail Express or Priority Mail Open and Distribute under 18.0.

Facsimile Forms 8125 may be used in lieu of the USPS form. Formats must be approved in advance by the district manager of Business Mail Entry or designee. Formats must include all required information, including the correct title (preceded by the word “facsimile”) and edition date, in locations as close as possible to where they appear on the USPS form. Data fields that do not pertain to information relating to the PVDS, and other extraneous information that appears on the USPS form, do not have to be included. Form 8125-C must always be computer-generated. Form 8125-C may omit the “Number of Pieces” and “Piece Weight” columns for mailings prepared in sacks, trays, or on pallets if there is sufficient information for the origin Post Office and destination USPS facility to identify the mailings and to compare the information on the form with the physical mail. The mailer must report the number of pieces in each mailing on Form 8125-C if the mailings consist of individual mailpieces that are not prepared in containers (e.g., bedloaded parcels). For mailings consisting of identical-weight pieces, mailers should report the piece weight where possible.

Using any means of transportation, including Priority Mail Express or Priority Mail Open and Distribute shipment, the mailer must transport PVDS mailings from origin to the destination USPS facility. The mailer must not transport PVDS mailings on the same vehicle with shipments not entered as PVDS. For Standard Mail, Parcel Select, and Package Services PVDS, the mailer must meet the scheduling standards for mail deposit at destination USPS facilities. If a vehicle contains mail paid at Parcel Select destination entry prices, the applicable standards for scheduling of deposits and unloading of vehicles apply to any other mail on the same vehicle for the same destination USPS facility. Any material classified as hazardous under 601.9.0 may not be carried in the same vehicle as PVDS mailings.

When a vehicle contains more than one PVDS for a single destination USPS facility, the shipments must be separated to allow reconciliation with each accompanying Form 8125. Vehicles containing shipments for multiple destination USPS facilities must be kept physically separated. Where applicable, a single Form 8125 that identifies all the mail for a single facility must be prepared for a shipment of copalletized or combined mailings.

PS Forms 8125 must be segregated from all other nonpostal documentation and presented separately to USPS personnel at the time of induction. Nonpostal proof-of-delivery documents such as delivery receipts or bills of lading presented by a mailer's transportation provider [carrier] are not substitutes for PS Forms 8125. USPS personnel may, upon request, sign such documents when presented by carriers. A PS Form 8125 signed by a postal employee (or electronic equivalent file in the Electronic Verification System (eVS)) serves as the sole evidence of the transfer of the custody of pieces entered as a mailing at the time of induction. The Postal Service does not consider a proof-of-delivery document such as a delivery receipt or a bill of lading furnished by a USPS customer's carrier as proof of mailing, acceptance, or the amount of mail tendered. Any signature by a postal employee or agent on any nonpostal form does not serve any mail acceptance purpose. If an inconsistency between the information on a PS Form 8125 and a carrier- or mailer-provided document designed to evidence the transfer of custody of pieces entered as a mailing at the time of induction exists, the information on PS Form 8125 prevails insofar as the USPS is concerned.

Under this option, in addition to the individual postage statements required for each Parcel Select or Package Services mailing, the mailer may be required to submit postage statement registers and consolidated postage statements for PVDS mailings. A single, unique USPS mailing number must be on all related individual postage statements and postage statement register listing these individual statements, and the associated consolidated postage statement. When a mailer is required to submit consolidated postage statements, the information on these statements is used to debit the mailer’s account.

The mailer must submit a complete postage statement for each mailing for each destination USPS facility when the mailing is presented for verification and postage payment. In addition to the information required on all individual postage statements, if the mailer is required to submit consolidated postage statements (for three or more entry Post Offices) for debiting of the advance deposit account, each individual postage statement must include a uniquely assigned postage statement sequence number that must not exceed nine digits. The numbers must be sequential within a job or mailing cycle for mailings verified, paid for, and cleared for dispatch on the same day. The statements must also include a unique USPS mailing number corresponding to the number on the related postage statement register and consolidated postage statement.

A postage statement register is a computer-generated line item listing of all individual postage statements for PVDS permit imprint mailings verified and released for dispatch on a single day from a job or mailing cycle. All postage statements listed on a postage statement register must be represented by a corresponding consolidated postage statement. The total postage charge on the postage statement register must be identical to the total postage charge on the corresponding consolidated statement. The following information must appear on each postage statement register:

d. If necessary, manual corrections may be made to the postage statement register listing the data from any revised individual statement. These corrections must be documented by the DMU, and the corrected register must be signed and dated by both the mailer and the USPS representative approving the changes. The changes on the register must be reflected on the associated consolidated postage statement.

The consolidated postage statement assembles data from the individual postage statements representing permit imprint mailings verified, paid for, and released for dispatch on a single day from a job or mailing cycle. The consolidated postage statement must be a computer-generated facsimile similar in format to the appropriate USPS postage statement. The mailer must sign and date the consolidated statement. Certain data elements not on the individual postage statements must be reflected on the consolidated statement, including the range of unique individual statement sequence numbers, the number of individual statements represented, and the endorsement “Consolidated Postage Statement.” Other data elements on individual statements, such as each Post Office of deposit for PVDS mailings, are not shown on the consolidated statement. Each individual statement must contain a USPS mailing number that corresponds to the USPS mailing number on the related consolidated statement. The consolidated statements are used to debit the mailer’s account. The following information must be identical for each individual statement consolidated onto a single (consolidated) postage statement:

Each field on the consolidated postage statement represents the sum of the figures in that field from the individual postage statements. The figures reported on the consolidated statement must be rounded in accordance with 604.7.1.3. All fields containing data on the individual statements must be rolled up to the consolidated statement. The total postage on the consolidated statement must be the sum of the total postage for all individual postage statements. This total is used to debit the mailer’s account.

c. Except as provided above, Priority Mail postage is based on the zone and weight of the contents of the Open and Distribute shipment. Do not include the tare weight of the external container. Do not apply Priority Mail dimensional weight pricing or Periodicals container prices to the external container. The minimum weight requirement for Open and Distribute sacks is 5 pounds, except for Open and Distribute sacks that contain qualified trays (trays prepared under the standards for the applicable class of mail). The maximum weight for each container is 70 pounds.

The mailer must provide the correct postage statement for the enclosed mail unless prepared under the Electronic Verification System (eVS). If the enclosed mail is zone-priced, the mailer must either provide documentation that details the pieces and postage, by zone for each Priority Mail Express Open and Distribute or Priority Mail Open and Distribute shipment destination, or provide a separate postage statement for each Priority Mail Express Open and Distribute or Priority Mail Open and Distribute shipment destination. The mailer must always present the mailing to the designated USPS acceptance unit for verification of postage and fees. A postage statement is not required for the Priority Mail Express or Priority Mail portion of the Open and Distribute shipment, unless Priority Mail postage is paid by permit imprint not prepared under eVS.

Priority Mail Express Open and Distribute and Priority Mail Open and Distribute provide alternatives for mailers who want to expedite mailings of other classes of mail to destination postal facilities, including as a means of eligibility for destination entry prices for the applicable classes and shapes of mail. Mailers prepare the mailings according to standards for the enclosed class of mail, enclose the mail in containers for expedited service as either Priority Mail Express Open and Distribute or Priority Mail Open and Distribute, and present the mailings to a postal acceptance unit by the critical entry time for USPS shipment under 18.0. Mailers may use Priority Mail Express Open and Distribute or Priority Mail Open and Distribute for all or part of their mailings.

The Priority Mail Express or Priority Mail shipment and the enclosed mail must meet all corresponding eligibility and preparation standards (see 210 for Priority Mail Express standards and 220 for Priority Mail standards). For mail enclosed in a Priority Mail Express Open and Distribute container, available extra services are indicated in 18.3.2. For mail enclosed in a Priority Mail Open and Distribute container, available extra services are indicated in 18.4.2. Mailpieces requiring cancellation may not be included in a Priority Mail Express Open and Distribute or a Priority Mail Open and Distribute shipment. Mailers are not required to place bundles of mail in sacks or trays when all of the mail enclosed in an Open and Distribute sack is destined to a 5-digit facility and the Open and Distribute sack weighs at least five pounds.

Labels for Priority Mail Express Open and Distribute trays, sacks and similar containers must be barcoded and meet the requirements in 708.6.0. Tray boxes, sacks and other containers (except pallets and pallet boxes) used for Priority Mail Open and Distribute shipments must bear a barcoded tray or sack label that includes the appropriate CIN code that best describes the class and processing category of the contents of the shipment. When no specific CIN code accurately describes all of these elements, the "165" generic code must be used. It is recommended that all EMOD and PMOD shipments bear Intelligent Mail tray barcodes prepared under 708.6.3. Although mailers may affix tray labels on either end of a tray box (or similar container), to the right of the hand-hold cutout, the recommended placement is on the end of the tray box nearest to the EMOD or PMOD address label. All lines of information must be completely visible when inserted into the label holder. Label trays or sacks as follows:

Blue Tag 257 and yellow Tag 267 provide a place to affix Priority Mail Express postage and the address label for the destination facility. For mailings prepared under the Electronic Verification System (eVS), use blue Tag 257-EVS and yellow Tag 267-EVS. The applicable tag must be attached to each Priority Mail Express sack, in addition to the Priority Mail Express sack label, to identify it as a Priority Mail Express Open and Distribute shipment as follows:

Green Tag 161 and pink Tag 190 provide a place to affix Priority Mail postage and the address label for the destination facility. For mailings prepared under the Electronic Verification System (eVS), use green Tag 161-EVS and pink Tag 190-EVS. The applicable tag must be attached to each Priority Mail sack, in addition to the Priority Mail sack label, or container to identify it as a Priority Mail Open and Distribute shipment as follows:

[5-31-15] [4-26-15] [1-25-15] An electronic service barcode using the USS 128, USS 39, or Intelligent Mail package barcode (IMpb) (eVS approved mailers) symbology for Priority Mail Express Open and Distribute, and the concatenated GS1-128 or IMpb symbology for Priority Mail Open and Distribute, must be incorporated in the address label. Mailers must prepare address labels using the formats in 18.5.8 through 18.5.12. The labels must include either a service type code “723” with an IMpb or “DB” prefix with a USS 128 or USS 39 barcode for Priority Mail Express Open and Distribute or service type code “55” with a concatenated GS1-128 barcode or “123” with an IMpb for Priority Mail Open and Distribute, to identify the service. The human-readable text “USPS SCAN ON ARRIVAL” must appear above the barcode. USPS certification is required from the National Customer Support Center (NCSC) for each printer used to print barcoded open and distribute address labels, except for barcodes created using USPS webtools or a USPS meter label solution. NCSC contact information, formatting specifications for barcodes and electronic files, and certification, are included in Publication 199, available on RIBBS. Mailers can use the following options available to create a label with a service barcode for Priority Mail Express Open and Distribute and Priority Mail Open and Distribute address labels:

For the DDU address label, use the name of the DDU on the top line; the street address of the facility on the next line; and city, state, and ZIP+4 code on the last line of the address block. For the DDU address label, use the destination facility name, the street address, city, state, and ZIP+4 found in the Drop Entry Point View File available at USPS' FAST Web site:https://fast.usps.com (click on Reports>Mail Direction Search>Drop Entry Point View). Directly below the address, indicate the class and processing category of the enclosed mail. See Exhibit 18.5.8 for an example of a DDU address label.

Mailers must prepare Priority Mail Express Open and Distribute and Priority Mail Open and Distribute shipments under 18.2 and 18.5 and present shipments at a business mail entry unit (BMEU) or other location designated by the postmaster to accept both the enclosed mail and, when applicable, Priority Mail Express. Open and Distribute containers must not be sealed until the BMEU verification and acceptance of the contents has been completed, unless accepted under an alternate procedure authorized by Business Mailer Support.

A PS Form 3152, Confirmation Services Certification, (Priority Mail Open and Distribute) or PS Form 3152-E (Priority Mail Express Open and Distribute) must accompany each Open and Distribute shipment. Mailers must present shipments to the BMEU with enough time for acceptance, processing, and dispatch before the facility's critical entry time for Priority Mail Express or Priority Mail.

A customer may affix postage using a postage meter (postage evidencing system) licensed at one Post Office (licensing Post Office) and deposit that mail at another Post Office (entry Post Office) only if prior authorization is obtained from the USPS under one of the procedures described below. Such authorization may be revoked under 19.2.6 when the USPS determines that information or circumstances supporting the original authorization may no longer be accurate, complete, or applicable. (604.4.0 provides an exception to this standard for metered Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, and single-piece price metered mail.) These general conditions apply:

Authorizations under Options 1 and 2 in 19.3, and 19.4, are granted to meter license holders. The meter license holder must apply in writing to the district manager of business mail entry whose district includes the licensing Post Office of the meter holder.

Authorization under Option 3 in 19.5, is granted to mailers intending to present mail for other meter license holders (including their own mail, if applicable) at one location other than the licensing office(s), whereas authorization under Option 4 in 19.6, is granted for mailings presented at more than one location. For authorization under Option 3, the mailer or consolidator must apply in writing to the district manager of business mail entry whose district includes the Post Office(s) where the mailings are verified for presort preparation and payment of postage. Applications under Option 4 must be submitted to the manager, Business Mailer Support.

The application must describe the classes of mail to be deposited and the volume, processing category, frequency of mailing, and requested deposit schedule of each. The application must also state how the mail to be entered meets applicable eligibility and service standards and must identify any third party preparing and presenting the mail. The application must be prepared on the mailer’s letterhead and signed by an authorized manager or representative. There is no USPS form for this purpose. Additional information is required for Options 3 and 4. Mailers seeking authorization under Option 4 must contact Business Mailer Support, USPS Headquarters, for guidance (see 608.8.0 for address).

Metered mail of any class may be entered and deposited by the licensed meter holder or an agent at the local processing and distribution center/facility (P&DC/F) making the initial originating distribution of mail deposited at the Post Office where the meter license is held. Mail must be prepared under the standards for the class and price claimed and as specified in the drop shipment authorization. The mailer may be required to prepare and deposit the mail in an additional manner that best enhances postal handling as specified in the drop shipment authorization. Any such requirements are modified to reflect changes in the mailings subsequently presented by the mailer. Failure to meet these standards may lead to revocation of the authorization.

Metered mail of any class may be entered and deposited by the licensed meter holder or an agent at a Post Office other than the licensing Post Office or P&DC/F serving the licensing Post Office. Mail must be prepared under the standards for the class and price claimed and as specified in the drop shipment authorization. The mailer may be required to perform additional preparation and meet specific deposit schedules to enhance postal handling. Any such requirements are specified in the drop shipment authorization and may be modified to reflect changes in the mailings subsequently presented by the mailer. Failure to meet these standards may lead to revocation of the authorization.

Each mailpiece deposited under this option must contain an endorsement with the city and state of the entry Post Office, the words “Drop Shipment Authorization” (or the abbreviation “D/S AUTH”), and the unique authorization number issued by the district manager of business mail entry serving the entry Post Office. If the abbreviation “D/S AUTH” is not used, the mailing office ZIP Code may be used instead of the city and state of mailing. The endorsement must be included in digital indicia or placed outside the indicium boundary in 8-point or larger type by a computer or mechanical method providing a clear and legible impression. For letter press indicia, the endorsement must appear in the ad plate area. The application and the endorsement format must be approved by the district manager of business mail entry before mail is deposited under this option.

The drop shipment endorsement placed in the ad plate area or within the indicium boundary may include the marking required by the standards for the price claimed if that marking is placed directly below the drop ship endorsement and meets the standards in 202for letters, 202 for flats, and 202 for parcels. The marking may also be provided separately directly below the indicium boundary if the marking meets the relevant size and legibility standards.

The majority of the mail consolidated for entry under Option 3 must be prepared in a single mailing (with a single postage statement) in which all pieces, regardless of price claimed, have the correct barcode (ZIP+4 for flats, delivery point for letters and cards) and are physically compatible with automated mail processing equipment. The entry Post Office may reject a mailing if all pieces do not have the correct barcode. A minor portion of the consolidated mail may be prepared as a second, separate mailing (with its own postage statement) in which the pieces do not bear the correct barcode (or are not compatible with automated processing equipment) but do meet the standards that apply to the prices claimed.

When a mailpiece is part of a consolidated mailing, the service objective that applies must be the same as or better than that which would have applied had the piece been entered at the licensing Post Office. As part of the application, documentation must be provided by the mailer to show compliance with this standard to USPS satisfaction. (Typical documentation lists the service objective that applies to each licensing Post Office from whose area mail is to be consolidated and the standard that applies to that mail when it is entered under Option 3.)

After receiving an authorization notice, the mailer must give written notice to each licensee whose mail is to be consolidated under the authorization. The mailer’s notice must include a copy of the authorization, a full explanation of preparation requirements, and a reminder that consolidation of their mail can adversely affect service. The mailer must give copies of each licensee notice to the entry office and licensing office postmasters.

Each mailpiece deposited under this option must be endorsed with the letters “DS,” followed by a unique drop shipment authorization number (issued by the manager of business mail entry of the district in which the mail is entered) and the words “MAILED AT,” followed by the 3-digit ZIP Code prefix of the entry Post Office. The endorsement may also include the correct mailing date. (Including this date does not relieve the meter licensee(s) from meeting the standards for correct dating of metered mail.) The endorsement must be printed immediately below the meter stamp or indicium or in the lower left corner of the mailpiece, in 8-point or larger type, by a computer or another mechanical method providing a clear and legible endorsement. The district manager of business mail entry issuing the authorization number must approve the endorsement before drop shipment mailings may be made under this option.

The majority of the mail consolidated for entry under Option 4 must be prepared in a single mailing (with a single postage statement) in which all pieces, regardless of price claimed, have the correct barcode (ZIP+4 for flats, delivery point for letters and cards) and are physically compatible with automated mail processing equipment. The entry Post Office may reject a mailing if all pieces do not have the correct barcode. A minor portion of the consolidated mail may be prepared as a second, separate mailing (with its own postage statement) in which the pieces do not bear the correct barcode (or are not compatible with automated processing equipment) but do meet the standards that apply to the prices claimed.

When a mailpiece is part of a consolidated mailing, the service objective that applies must be the same as or better than that which would have applied had the piece been entered at the licensing Post Office. As part of the application, documentation must be provided by the mailer to show compliance with this standard to USPS satisfaction. (Typical documentation lists the service objective that applies to each pair of origin/destination 3-digit ZIP Codes in the consolidated mailing, both if entered at the licensing Post Office and if entered as authorized under Option 4.)

An application under Option 4 must be submitted by the mailer (i.e., the party to present the consolidated mailing to the USPS). The information in 19.2, must be provided for each Post Office at which mail is to be entered under Option 4. The application must also detail: the meter licensees whose mail is to be consolidated and the serial numbers of each licensee’s meters; the mailer’s method of sortation, documentation, and quality control; and the mailer’s procedures for ensuring that all pieces in the consolidated mailing are entered to meet or exceed the service objectives for the place of origin.

After receiving the authorization notice, the mailer must give written notice to each licensee whose mail is to be consolidated under the authorization. The mailer’s notice must include a copy of the authorization, a full explanation of preparation requirements, and a reminder that consolidation of their mail can adversely affect service. The mailer must give copies of each licensee notice to the entry office and licensing office postmasters.

Metered mail deposited under Option 4 must be prepared in segments for entry at postal facilities according to schemes and schedules provided by the USPS. Further, each segment must be prepared for dispatch without additional postal processing or handling, and deposited at places and times specified by the USPS. The USPS may stipulate preparation beyond that required to qualify for the price paid for the mail. Failure to meet these standards can lead to revocation of the authorization.

A mailer who wants to present combined parcel mailings must submit a written request to the Manager, Business Mailer Support (See 608.8.1 for address). The request must show the mailer's name and address, the mailing office, evidence of authorization to mail under 2.0, procedures for the combined parcel mailing, the expected date of first mailing, a sample of the required manifest, and a sample USPS Qualification report. Business Mailer Support will review the documentation and provide written authorization when approved. A mailer may terminate an authorization at any time by written notice to the postmaster of the office serving the mailer's location. Business Mailer Support may terminate an authorization, by written notice, if the mailer does not meet the standards.